Chief Minister of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Muhammad Sohail Afridi, announced on Saturday that the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) is initiating organized preparations for a massive nationwide protest movement. This action follows direct instructions from the party's founding chairman, Imran Khan.
Grassroots Mobilization Across the Country
Addressing rallies and public receptions in Haripur, Abbottabad, and Mansehra, CM Afridi stated that PTI workers have been directed to begin structured preparations in every corner of Pakistan. The party's strategy focuses on mobilizing supporters at the grassroots level, ensuring the movement reaches cities, towns, and villages across the nation.
He emphasized that Imran Khan's message is being actively conveyed to people in all regions. Afridi identified Islamabad's D-Chowk as a historic symbol of protest politics, indicating that local demonstrations would amplify nationwide demands for political rights and democratic principles.
Allegations of a Stolen Mandate and Nationwide Support
Speaking at a gathering in Haripur, the Chief Minister alleged that the public's mandate had once again been undermined, calling such acts a direct assault on democracy. He asserted that the people of the Hazara region stand firmly with Imran Khan and the PTI leadership.
To bolster his claim of widespread support, Afridi revealed that he has visited districts in Punjab and Sindh to communicate the party leadership's message directly. He cited strong public participation in major cities like Karachi, Lahore, Hyderabad, and Sargodha as clear evidence of enduring popular backing for Imran Khan's vision.
A Struggle for "Real Freedom"
Afridi framed the upcoming movement as a struggle for what he termed "real freedom." The core objectives, as outlined by the Chief Minister, include the restoration of democratic governance, ensuring judicial independence, and guaranteeing media freedom.
He pledged that the PTI would relentlessly pursue these goals through sustained public mobilization and peaceful protest. Concluding his addresses, CM Sohail Afridi thanked the residents of Hazara Division for their enthusiastic participation, interpreting it as a strong endorsement for the planned nationwide protest campaign.
