Imran Khan's three years in jail spark protests across Pakistan; over 100 held
Over 100 supporters of jailed former Pakistan PM Imran Khan were arrested during nationwide protests marking three years of his imprisonment. The PTI party has threatened further marches toward Islamabad if their demands for justice are not met.
Why it matters
The ongoing political instability in Pakistan, a nuclear-armed nation, has significant implications for regional security and democratic governance.
Over 100 supporters of jailed former Pakistan prime minister Imran Khan were arrested on Wednesday as Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) supporters held rallies nationwide to mark three years of his imprisonment. The demonstrations, which called for Khan’s release, saw police fire tear gas at protesters in Rawalpindi amid clashes and heightened security.The main rally was held in Peshawar, the capital of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, where PTI is in power. The party demanded Khan’s release and restoration of his rights. Thousands of supporters gathered amid heavy security, according to Al Jazeera.In Punjab, Police baton-charged protesters and arresting scores of PTI workers in Lahore, Mianwali and Rawalpindi. In Lahore's Mall Road, police dispersed demonstrators demanding Khan's release and detained several protesters.Video footage circulated on social media showed rapid response force (RRF) using force against demonstrators.
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