Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) has intensified its political activity ahead of a planned public gathering scheduled for April 9 in Rawalpindi. The party says the event will highlight grievances related to federal policies and budget allocations, particularly concerns raised by the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa leadership.
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi announced that the provincial government will formally seek permission for the rally by applying for a No Objection Certificate (NOC). He warned that if permission is not granted, party supporters will still express their protest individually at different locations, indicating a potential escalation in political activity.
PTI leadership has stated that the rally is linked to what it describes as a significant political turning point in 2022, which led to the removal of its former chairman Imran Khan from power. Party sources indicate that after exploring legal and democratic options, PTI is now preparing to adopt a more assertive stance in its political strategy.
According to party insiders, the upcoming rally will serve as a test of leadership for the K-P Chief Minister. Sohail Afridi is expected to demonstrate his organizational and political strength, especially as comparisons are being drawn with previous leadership under former chief minister Ali Amin Gandapur, who had successfully mobilized large gatherings even on short notice.
PTI sources also suggest that the party is aware of possible administrative or legal obstacles ahead of the rally. Despite this, the party appears determined to proceed with its plans and has indicated that it will stage gatherings even if restricted at the originally planned venue of Liaquat Bagh.
Party discussions further reveal that PTI is attempting to broaden its political narrative beyond its central focus on Imran Khan. Leaders say the party intends to address wider public issues and national concerns in addition to its core political messaging.
Meanwhile, internal views within the party remain mixed. Some leaders from Punjab have expressed concerns over the risks and consequences of such political mobilization, pointing to previous incidents that led to legal cases against party members. They have questioned whether the current strategy differs significantly from earlier attempts that resulted in similar outcomes.
At the same time, logistical and organizational matters are still under consideration, particularly regarding participation from different regions. Due to prevailing conditions, a large portion of PTI’s Punjab leadership may face challenges in attending the rally, placing greater responsibility on the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa leadership to ensure its success.
