Sun Nov 24 20:00:30 UTC 2024: ## Islamabad on Lockdown as Imran Khan Supporters March, Belarus Delegation Arrives Amid Tensions

**Islamabad, Pakistan –** Islamabad is under tight security lockdown as thousands of supporters of imprisoned former Prime Minister Imran Khan marched towards the capital on November 24, 2024, demanding his release. The protest, called for by Khan himself, coincided with the arrival of a high-level Belarusian delegation, led by Foreign Minister Maksim Ryzinkov, ahead of President Alexander Lukashenko’s state visit.

The government, anticipating large-scale protests, implemented sweeping security measures. Mobile internet services were partially shut down, key roads were blocked with containers, and a public holiday was declared for Islamabad’s educational institutions. Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi stated that the government was forced to take these steps to protect Islamabad from potential paralysis. He confirmed arrests of protestors attempting to enter the city and warned of further action against those disrupting public order. Information Minister Atta Tarar blamed Khan’s PTI party for the city closures.

Khan’s supporters, facing tear gas, resorted to burning bushes to mitigate the effects. Convoys from various cities across the country were reported to be en route to Islamabad. Despite the heavy security presence, including Rangers, police, and Frontier Constabulary, the PTI maintained that its goal was to reach the capital and secure Khan’s release. The PTI leader, Omar Ayub Khan, claimed that the government’s actions were suppressing the people’s will.

The Belarusian delegation’s arrival, accompanied by eight ministers and 43 business leaders, proceeded amidst the turmoil. Discussions between President Lukashenko and Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif are expected to strengthen bilateral ties. The timing of the protest drew criticism from the Interior Minister, as the protestors’ route intersected with that of the Belarusian delegation.

Khan, facing numerous legal cases since his ouster in 2022, remains imprisoned. His party, which won the most seats in the February elections, alleges the current government stole the mandate. The government, however, insists that any protests violating court orders will face legal consequences. The situation remains tense as Khan’s supporters continue their march towards the capital, and the government maintains its firm security stance. Train and public transport services have been suspended in several areas.

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