ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi has called on the jailed former Prime Minister Imran Khan’s party to postpone its planned protest in Islamabad on Friday due to the visit of the Malaysian Prime Minister.
Addressing a press conference in Islamabad, Naqvi warned that there would be no tolerance for any attempts to hold protests in the capital or incite violence. Imran Khan’s party, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), has announced a protest rally at D-Chowk, which is designated as a red zone, on Friday.
Naqvi emphasized the importance of maintaining decorum during the Malaysian Prime Minister’s visit, especially with the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) meeting approaching. He stated that over 4,000 police personnel will be deployed at all entry and exit points in Islamabad in anticipation of the protest at D-Chowk.
“It is inappropriate to protest or disrupt the capital while a foreign head of state is present. You risk undermining diplomatic relations,” he remarked. He referred to past incidents, noting that even minor disruptions during the Indian Prime Minister’s visit still resonate negatively.
He criticized the Chief Minister of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa for not upholding his responsibilities and assured that comprehensive arrangements have been made to manage the protest. “This is a warning—those planning to march on D-Chowk should think carefully,” he said.
The Minister also mentioned the upcoming visit of a Saudi delegation and confirmed that the army has been deployed in Islamabad. “The state is fully prepared. Political activists should reconsider their plans to protest tomorrow. We have a strategy in place until October 17.”
