Pakistan, Dec 02 : Pakistan is on edge as death rumours surrounding former Prime Minister Imran Khan spark nationwide unrest. Authorities in Rawalpindi have imposed Section 144, banning all public gatherings, as Khan’s supporters demand access to him.
In response to rising tensions, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has cut short his London visit to return to Pakistan, while President Asif Ali Zardari has convened an urgent joint session of Parliament. While officially slated to discuss Pakistan-Afghanistan relations and internal security, experts suggest the real agenda centers on imposing Governor’s rule in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), potentially ousting KP Chief Minister Sohail Afridi of Imran Khan’s Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI).
The government cites law and order concerns as the rationale for the proposed administrative change. Analysts say the joint session serves as a parliamentary cover to facilitate the KP power shift without triggering direct public backlash. Multiple candidates, including current Governor Faisal Karim Kundi, former ministers Pervez Khattak and Ahmed Hyder Hoti, as well as senior army officials, are reportedly under consideration for the role.
PTI supporters continue to demand immediate access to Imran Khan, who has been isolated following mounting rumours about his health. While the establishment may allow a conditional meeting with his sister Uzma and a vetted lawyer, media interaction post-meeting is strictly prohibited.
Security agencies remain on high alert. Section 144, enforced until December 3, prohibits all assemblies, rallies, sit-ins, and gatherings. Roads around key installations are under surveillance, and intelligence reports warn of potential mobilisation targeting sensitive locations.
Officials say Pakistan faces dual crises: stabilising KP’s administration and managing the political fallout of the Imran Khan situation, which has intensified unrest in KP and Balochistan while affecting the country’s international image.