The top leadership of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), led by Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur and PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar, arrived in Lahore on Monday to prepare for what they call a decisive nationwide movement beginning August 5.
The convoy was warmly welcomed by enthusiastic PTI workers who showered petals, chanted slogans in favour of Imran Khan, and waved party flags. Former federal minister Zartaj Gul even climbed onto the car roof, leading chants demanding Khan’s release.
As a precaution, heavy police deployment was seen at Shahdara Mor, where four PTI workers, including Yasir Gillani, were briefly detained and later released.
A crucial joint parliamentary meeting of PTI Punjab and KP assemblies is underway at a private farmhouse. The session, presided over by Gandapur and Barrister Gohar, is expected to finalise the protest strategy for August 5. Senior party leaders and elected members are in attendance, with the outcomes to be announced at a press conference tomorrow, followed by a dinner for participants.
In his speech, CM Ali Amin Gandapur launched a scathing critique of the political system and establishment, blaming decades of interference and martial laws for Pakistan’s ongoing instability. "We are living under an invisible martial law that has deeply damaged the country. And yet, those responsible feel no shame,” he declared.
Gandapur emphasised that every province should design its protest strategy for August 5 according to the local conditions, urging party members to take the movement to every street and neighbourhood across Pakistan. "Our unity and determination by August 5 will be the loudest voice this country has ever heard," he said.
He reiterated his respect for the armed forces, calling himself the son and brother of soldiers, but criticised those who, through interference, have lowered the institution's public standing. "As a chief minister, I am accountable to the people—and so should they be."
Opposition Leader in the Punjab Assembly, Malik Ahmad Khan Bachhar, highlighted the government’s authoritarian tactics, citing the suspension of PTI members whenever Gandapur visited the Assembly. "The fear of PTI’s 107 tiger lawmakers is real," he said.
MNA Ali Muhammad Khan reignited memories of PTI’s early days in Lahore, stressing that all great political movements begin in the city. "This time, our movement is different. It will rise from every city—Lahore, Karachi, Peshawar, Multan, and beyond—until Imran Khan is free."
MNA Junaid Akbar Khan added, "Today proves that PTI remains one, united, and unwavering. Even in the face of repression, we stand tall.”
Before departing, Gandapur clarified the purpose of the convoy: “This is not a protest; it’s a peaceful show of solidarity with those unlawfully expelled from the Punjab Assembly. Every step we take honours democratic values, not chaos.”
He emphasised that their message is one of unity, peace, and the restoration of constitutional rights. “Our movement carries no hate—only love and commitment to democracy,” he said.
