The arrest of several Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party leaders and legislators in overnight raids has set the stage for a renewed confrontation between former Prime Minister Imran Khan’s party and the ruling government. Analysts warn that the latest crackdown could escalate tensions as the political landscape in Pakistan becomes increasingly volatile.
PTI leaders were arrested at Pakistan’s parliament on Monday, a day after the party held a major rally on the outskirts of Islamabad, demanding the release of Khan, who remains imprisoned despite the suspension of several convictions. Khan, who was jailed in August 2023, faces ongoing legal battles in multiple cases. His supporters view the charges as politically motivated.
Raids and Arrests Spark Outrage
Footage circulating on social media captured PTI leaders being forced into vehicles by police at the National Assembly. While authorities confirmed the arrest of four PTI leaders, the party claims that at least 13 were taken into custody, including PTI chairman Gohar Ali Khan. PTI spokesperson Sayed Zulfi Bukhari described the situation as a “dark day for democracy” and accused the government of targeting opposition lawmakers, many of whom have reportedly gone into hiding.
The arrests followed a large PTI rally that took place on Sunday, where thousands gathered to demand Khan’s release. Despite government-imposed restrictions, including a proposed ban on public gatherings, PTI was able to hold its first major demonstration since the controversial general elections earlier this year.
Election Dispute and PTI’s Struggles
In the February elections, PTI candidates won the most seats, but the party failed to form a government. Instead, the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) and Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) established a coalition government. PTI has since accused the government of election rigging, though Pakistan’s election commission denies these claims.
Sunday’s rally featured fiery speeches from PTI leaders, with Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur threatening direct action if Khan is not released within two weeks. The rally continued beyond its permitted time, leading to minor clashes with police. Authorities alleged stone-throwing from the crowd, while PTI claims that police used tear gas against demonstrators.
Growing Concerns Over Military’s Role
The political standoff has taken on an additional layer of complexity, with reports suggesting that Khan could face trial in a military court. This has further angered PTI supporters, who view the military’s involvement as a threat to Pakistan’s fragile democracy. PTI’s critics argue that the military has long wielded significant influence over civilian governments in Pakistan.
Gandapur’s brief detention on Monday night has only fueled tensions. Bukhari claims that Gandapur was invited by the military to discuss law and order but was detained without warning. He was reportedly held incommunicado before being released early Tuesday morning.
Analysts Divided on Next Steps
Political experts are divided on the likelihood of the situation escalating into widespread violence. Talat Hussain, a political analyst, described the arrests as “hugely embarrassing” for the government and predicted that they would only provide more “propaganda material” for PTI. However, he stopped short of predicting mass unrest.
Mustafa Nawaz Khokar, a former senator, acknowledged the challenges PTI faces, including a political base in disarray and continued government pressure. However, he emphasized that the party still enjoys broad public support despite the crackdown.
Meanwhile, political commentator Majid Nizami warned that PTI could face even harsher measures in the coming days. He suggested that further arrests and repression could be on the horizon as the government attempts to tighten its grip on power.
As the arrests continue to draw condemnation, including from National Assembly Speaker Ayaz Sadiq, who demanded the release of the detained lawmakers, Pakistan faces the prospect of another turbulent chapter in its political history. PTI leaders have vowed to continue protests, and the question remains whether the government’s hardline stance will lead to a broader confrontation with the opposition.