Chief Minister of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Ali Amin Gandapur, announced on Friday that all preparations for today's protest of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) at D-Chowk in Islamabad are complete. He assured that the demonstration would be peaceful. However, he warned that anyone who resorts to violence will bear full responsibility for the resulting situation. Gandapur emphasised that the orders of PTI founder Imran Khan are a red line for him, adding that he has no authority to call off the protest. "There is no need to contact me about postponing the protest," he said. "Until the Quaid (Imran Khan) commands otherwise, I will keep moving forward, even if I am left to march alone," he said. CM Gandapur instructed party workers to gather at 10:00 am in Peshawar and at 10:30 am at the Swabi Interchange. He also advised protesters to avoid travelling on the Islamabad-Peshawar Motorway.

In a separate statement, the KP government's Spokesperson, Barrister Dr Saif, alleged that the Nawaz League government is planning to use violence against their peaceful protest through its 'Gullu Butts' [thugs). "Yesterday, notorious Punjab police fired shots and used tear gas shells against our people," he said. Dr Saif accused the PML-N of destroying democracy, stating that the ruling party has become a symbol of fascism and oppression. He warned the Punjab police to remain within their constitutional limits, otherwise, they would face severe legal consequences. "Do not mistake peaceful protesters for being weak, because we know how to respond with force if necessary," he cautioned. He also said, "The nation is well aware of who is pulling the strings behind the ruling Nawaz League, and attempts to misrepresent our peaceful protest will fail."

Credit: Independent News Pakistan