Protest Day 2: ‘We Won’t End the March Until Khan Joins Us,’ Bushra Bibi Tells Supporters

Peshawar, Pakistan – The second day of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf’s (PTI) protest march towards Islamabad has seen increased momentum, with the convoy led by Bushra Bibi, the wife of PTI chairman Imran Khan, and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur advancing towards the capital. The PTI caravan, which set out from Peshawar, has reached Dhoke Ghar near Burhan, where Bushra Bibi and other PTI leaders, including Gandapur and former Minister Umar Ayub, met to discuss the future course of action.
In her speech to the protesters, Bushra Bibi reiterated that the protest would continue until her husband, Imran Khan, joins them. “We will not end this march until Khan is with us,” she told the crowd. “Even if no one stands with me, I will remain here because this is not just about my husband, but about the future of this country and its leadership.”
As the protest convoy neared Islamabad, several groups from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Balochistan, and South Punjab were also reported to be nearing the capital. Despite some delays, including resistance at key checkpoints like Ghazi Brotha and the Hazara Interchange, the caravan continues its advance towards Islamabad.
PTI’s Strategy: Slow and Steady
KP government spokesperson Barrister Saif emphasized that PTI’s protest is proceeding according to a planned strategy. “The government may have time on its hands, but we have the will and patience,” he said, urging the federal government to not expect an end to the protest without meeting PTI’s demands. The convoy’s pace slowed after additional groups from the Hazara region joined, with estimates suggesting around 40,000 protesters are currently part of the march.
Meanwhile, in Islamabad, authorities have intensified security measures. Heavy police and Rangers deployments are in place, particularly around key entry points to the city. Authorities have blocked major routes, including the 26 Number Chungi and Faizabad, with containers placed on roads to prevent protesters from entering the city.
Violence Erupts at Faizabad
Clashes between PTI supporters and police broke out at Faizabad Interchange, where police used batons to disperse protesters, arresting dozens. PTI leaders claim that over 490 of their supporters have been arrested, with 100 still unaccounted for. Police have been carrying out arrests across major cities, including in Rawalpindi, where more than 35 PTI members were detained.
In addition to physical confrontations, the federal government has deployed a range of preventative measures, including internet and mobile service disruptions across Islamabad and Rawalpindi. The Metro Bus services have also been suspended to prevent protesters from reaching key locations.
Hundreds Arrested Ahead of Major Protest
Over 139 PTI workers were arrested in Islamabad alone, with authorities claiming to have found weapons such as knives and slingshots on some detainees. Reports suggest that several of the arrests were made during the blockade of major roads like Srinagar Highway, the Motorway link road, and M1 and M2 highways leading towards Islamabad.
Authorities in Islamabad have implemented Section 144, banning gatherings and protests, warning that anyone violating the law would face strict action. As tensions escalate, a major security lockdown continues in Islamabad and Rawalpindi, including surveillance of over 70 key entry points between the twin cities.
Imran Khan’s Call for Action
Earlier, Bushra Bibi had made it clear that this protest is a test of loyalty for PTI’s leadership and its supporters. She stated that only those demonstrating their commitment to the party and the cause during this protest would be considered for party tickets in the upcoming general elections. She emphasized that the aim of the protest is to secure the release of Imran Khan, and that no one would leave Islamabad until that objective is achieved.
As the situation unfolds, tensions remain high, with the government and PTI both standing firm in their positions.