June 21st 2024.
On Friday, the Punjab government in Pakistan took a significant step by imposing prohibitory orders for the next seven days across the province. This decision was made in light of the planned nationwide protest by supporters of Imran Khan, who are demanding the release of the former prime minister, currently serving time in jail.
The government's move comes as the party workers of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf, founded by Khan himself, have announced their intention to demonstrate for his release. The imposition of Section 144, which prohibits protests and public gatherings, will take effect immediately.
Khan, a famous cricketer who later entered politics, has been in jail since August last year. He was convicted in almost 200 cases that were filed against him after his removal from power in April 2022. According to the Dawn newspaper, the Home Department of Punjab province has issued an order to impose Section 144 for the next seven days.
In the meantime, Khan himself has made a statement on Friday, stating that any negotiations with the ruling party, Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz, could lead to the downfall of the current government. As reported by The Express Tribune, Khan expressed his desire to negotiate for the benefit of Pakistan, rather than for his own personal or governmental interests.
"I am willing to negotiate for the betterment of Pakistan, not for my own sake or the government's," he said during an informal media chat at the hearing of his 190 million pounds corruption case. He also reiterated that he is open to stepping back if it would ultimately benefit the country. "Convince me that it's for the good of the nation, and I will gladly step back," he said.
Khan also criticized the current government for their failure to reduce expenses and create an investment-friendly environment. He noted that the country is currently facing a crisis, and the government's lack of action is only making things worse. "The government has not cut down on its expenses, which is concerning. They have also failed to create an environment that is conducive to investment," he said.
The former prime minister also stressed the need for a mandate-driven government to bring about necessary reforms. He pointed out that the current budget highlights the limitations of a non-mandated government. He also expressed concern over the heavy taxation on professionals and the public, predicting severe consequences from the upcoming electricity bills.
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