Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) announced the cancellation of its public gathering initially slated for April 6 at Islamabad’s Parade Ground.
Reason for Cancellation
PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan conveyed the decision on Wednesday via a post on X, citing the significance of Laylat-ul-Qadr — the revered night Muslims observe during the last ten days of Ramadan.
Emphasis on Spiritual Importance
Encouraging supporters to pray for the release and safety of all party members, including PTI founder Imran Khan and his spouse Bushra Bibi, Khan emphasized the spiritual significance of the occasion.
Background and Previous Plans
The decision to forego the gathering follows PTI’s earlier declaration of staging a significant demonstration at Parade Ground to advocate for the release of its founder, incarcerated since August last year on various charges.
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Court’s Perspective on Right to Assemble
Highlighting the significance of the right to assemble, IHC Chief Justice Aamer Farooq stated during a March 27 hearing that “One’s right of assembly cannot be taken away” in response to PTI’s plea for permission to organize a public rally in Islamabad.
Recent Relief from Court
The decision to halt the planned demonstration follows significant relief granted by the court just two days earlier, as the IHC suspended the sentences of Khan and Bushra Bibi in the Toshakhana case.
Further Legal Proceedings
Chief Justice Aamer Farooq mentioned that the appeal against their conviction would be scheduled for hearing after the Eid holidays.
Background of Toshakhana Case
In January, Accountability Court Judge Muhammad Bashir had sentenced Khan and Bushra to 14 years in prison each in the Toshakhana reference, along with disqualifying the former prime minister for 10 years and imposing a fine of Rs1.57 billion — Rs787 million each — on the couple.
