Pakistan has locked down Imran Khan's stronghold - but it could backfire
Some fear the government's standoff with the former PM's supporters could bring more instability, not less.
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Imran Khan's political stronghold, has been placed under a state of emergency. The province's PTI government has been suspended, schools closed, and the internet partially shut. This move, authorized by the constitution, was reportedly aimed at protecting the population from terrorism threats. Federal Information Minister Attah Tarrar stated that the PTI KPK government was in league with terrorists, but provided no evidence to support this claim.
Schools have since reopened, and internet services restored in most areas, though police are actively detaining those attempting to protest.
Chief Minister Sohail Afridi and other PTI leaders have gone into hiding as dozens of supporters took to the streets in Bara, Khyber district. Reports of tear gas shelling in the area have been circulating. Farzana Sheikh, a Chatham House associate fellow, questions the link between the emergency declaration and terrorism, suggesting there may be other motives.
Arifa Noor, a journalist and commentator, also doubts the connection, pointing out that the long march and other factors might have contributed to the authorities' actions.
The PTI's recent unrest has been fueled by concerns over Imran Khan's health. He has been detained for over three years, with his whereabouts often unknown. Khan, who many believe lost power due to a rift with Pakistan's military, is accused of corruption. The government claims the emergency was necessary, stating that Khan was breaking jail rules by discussing politics during meetings. However, some observers argue that the move is part of a broader crackdown on dissent, facilitated by the military's growing influence.
Critics argue that the state of emergency risks exacerbating political instability in Pakistan. The country is already grappling with rising militancy, strained relations with neighbors Afghanistan and India, and a promise to assist Saudi Arabia in defense against the Houthis. Some fear that Islamabad's actions could further destabilize the nation, potentially leading to more unrest and conflict.
Written by urgent.news from BBC World's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
