PTI plans April 9 rally in Rawalpindi amid political tensions

Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi announced that his party, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), will hold a public rally in Rawalpindi on April 9 to highlight the province’s concerns over federal policies and budget allocations.

Speaking at a press conference in Islamabad, Afridi said the provincial government would formally request a no-objection certificate (NOC) for the gathering. However, he added that if permission is denied, participants would stage protests in their respective areas. This statement reflects the party’s determination to proceed with its plans under any circumstances.

The rally date holds political significance for PTI, as April 9 marks what the party describes as a “regime change operation” in 2022 that led to the removal of former prime minister Imran Khan. Party sources indicate that PTI is now prepared to adopt a firmer political stance after exhausting legal and democratic avenues.

PPP-Led Sindh Govt Creates Barriers for PTI Rally: Sohail Afridi

According to insiders, the upcoming rally will be a major test of leadership for Chief Minister Afridi. He is expected to demonstrate stronger organizational capacity than his predecessor, Ali Amin Gandapur, who previously managed large gatherings on short notice. The party has also made it clear that if it is barred from holding the rally at Liaquat Bagh, it will organize events elsewhere.

At the same time, internal discussions suggest that PTI is broadening its focus to include wider public issues, rather than concentrating solely on Imran Khan’s legal situation. However, some party leaders, particularly from Punjab, have expressed concerns about repeated legal cases and the pressure on members.

They warned that while workers remain committed, excessive demands could weaken morale. Meanwhile, meetings with Imran Khan at Adiala Jail remained suspended, as authorities once again prevented party leaders from accessing the facility.