The Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) has formally begun its long march towards Islamabad, with Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi leading a convoy from Lakki Marwat. The march is being held to demand the release of jailed PTI founder and former prime minister Imran Khan.
Thousands of PTI supporters gathered at Gandi Chowk in Lakki Marwat, where Afridi addressed participants and said the party would not accept policies that went against the interests of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and its people. He also criticised the government’s approach towards terrorism and called for a policy focused on restoring peace in the province.
The convoy moved towards Karak after the launch of the march. PTI supporters from several southern districts were expected to join the caravan during its journey towards Peshawar and eventually Islamabad.
Meanwhile, a separate convoy led by former KP chief minister Ali Amin Gandapur turned back from Yarik in Dera Ismail Khan because of road blockades and security concerns. Gandapur said the decision was taken to protect workers and avoid unnecessary confrontation. He urged participants to remain peaceful and avoid violence, vandalism and clashes with law enforcement agencies.
The march began despite weekend negotiations between the government and opposition over the PTI’s planned protest. Although reports suggested that the talks had made progress, no final decision was reached before consultation with Imran Khan.
Security restrictions have also been imposed across several districts of KP under Section 144. Authorities have restricted the movement of people and vehicles along several routes, citing law-and-order and public safety concerns.
The federal government has warned that protesters will not be allowed to enter Islamabad and has maintained that security measures are necessary to protect public property and sensitive installations.
The PTI’s announced route includes stops near Karak, Kohat, Peshawar and Charsadda before participants gather at Khairabad. The next phase of the march towards Islamabad is expected to be announced later.
