The Pakistan Tehreek‑e‑Insaf (PTI) has postponed its planned long march from Peshawar to Islamabad until October 4, as the party intensifies its demand for the release of jailed former Prime Minister Imran Khan.
The announcement was made by Sohail Afridi, Chief Minister of PTI‑ruled Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, during a press conference in Peshawar. Afridi said the decision was taken to allow better mobilisation and coordination, ensuring maximum participation in what the party describes as a “historic struggle for justice.”
Originally scheduled for September 27, the march was expected to be a major show of strength. Khan has been in prison since 2023, facing multiple charges that his supporters claim are politically motivated. PTI leaders insist the march will highlight what they call the government’s attempts to silence dissent and undermine democracy.
The party’s last large‑scale protest two years ago ended in violent clashes with security forces, leaving several dead and dozens injured. Analysts warn that the upcoming march could once again test Pakistan’s fragile political stability, as tensions between PTI supporters and authorities remain high.
