Published 13:34 IST, October 28th 2019
Pakistan's anti-government protest demands Imran Khan's resignation
The anti-government procession organized by the Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam party is proceeding to Pakistan’s National capital, with people demanding 'real democracy'
The anti-government procession organized by the Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam party proceeded to Pakistan’s National capital - Islamabad, on Monday. The procession witnessed thousands of supporters of the religious political party who participated in the march demanding Prime Minister Imran Khan’s resignation and restoration of the ‘real democracy’ in Pakistan.
The anti-government procession
The march began from the southern port city of Karachi with masses loaded in buses and vans made their first overnight stop in Sukkur in Sindh Province, said the spokesperson of Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam party - Mufti Abrar Ahmed to reporters. Maulana Fazlur Rehman addressed the gathering and highlighted the objective of the procession. He said that procession is a step towards making stronger bonds with the people of Kashmir, who are suffering the oppression of the Indian army troops. He further added that the turmoil in Kashmir is affecting the normal lives of people violating their right to freedom. He claimed that Pakistan stands in solidarity with those oppressed in Kashmir.
People demand a change of government
Many believe that the procession organized across Pakistan was symbolic of the beginning of Kashmir conflict since it is a region claimed by both India and Pakistan. International media reported that mass demonstrations against India were also planned across the country. Rehman also asserted that the protest is also to demand a change of the “illegitimate” government under the leadership of Imran Khan which came to power by 'unfair means'. A few days prior to the procession, the leader of the Pakistan Peoples’ Party Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari announced his party’s support for the procession. Pakistan Muslim League which is the major opposition party of Pakistan, also extended its support in the quest for ‘real democracy’, along with other secular parties.
Pakistan Government all geared-up
The Pakistan government is expected to take the required measures to keep the situation under control. Imran Khan’s government negotiated with the leaders of the procession to restrict the protest in certain areas of the capital. However, the authorities have implemented their security plans with extra police force deployed in case riots breakout.
Updated 22:55 IST, October 28th 2019