Islamabad, Pakistan — Pakistani authorities have charged former Prime Minister Imran Khan, his wife Bushra Bibi, and several of their supporters with incitement to violence following a series of protests that led to clashes across the country. The unrest, driven by demands for Khan’s release, recently escalated in the capital, culminating in the death of at least six people, including four security personnel, and numerous injuries.
These protests have seen supporters of the ousted leader marching from the northwest regions towards Islamabad, with significant gatherings stirring tensions. The demonstrations erupted after Khan, who has been detained since August 2023, faced over 150 legal cases which his party describes as politically motivated attempts to undermine his support base.
The response from security forces peaked this Tuesday when a major operation was conducted to disperse crowds, resulting in nearly a thousand arrests focused in and around the capital. Amidst the chaos, Khan’s wife, who was out on bail in relation to a corruption case, managed to evade arrest.
Tensions escalated as protestors and law enforcement clashed, promptly leading to Islamabad and Rawalpindi police filing charges under Pakistan’s stringent anti-terrorism laws. Accusations against Khan and his followers include inciting attacks on security personnel and disturbing public peace, although these charges are vehemently disputed by Khan’s party, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), as politically charged.
Additionally, during these events, government officials reported attempts by protesters to seize control of the capital, asserting some were armed. This was countered by claims from the PTI dismissing allegations of protester violence and attributing the turmoil to unprovoked police aggression.
The protests have also cast shadows on Pakistan’s economic landscape. Planning and Development Minister Ahsan Iqbal, along with Information Minister Attaullah Tarar, relayed that the national economy took a significant hit, losing over $1.7 billion as markets reacted to the unfolding crisis. However, a rebound was observed on Thursday, possibly indicating a semblance of recovery, as the stock market surged past 100,000 points for the first time.
This economic bounce appears to align with statements from Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, indicating it as a symbol of potential stabilization amidst ongoing national unrest.
This layer of political upheaval continues to challenge the nation, both in terms of internal security and economic stability, painting a complex picture of governance and resistance in Pakistan’s evolving political landscape.
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