Protests erupt across Pakistan as tensions rise, President Zardari leaves Islamabad

Political tensions escalated across Pakistan on Saturday night as protests broke out in several major cities, including Karachi, Lahore, Islamabad and Rawalpindi, with clashes reported between demonstrators and police.

Amid the turmoil, President Asif Ali Zardari left Islamabad on a special aircraft to attend meetings with party leaders, according to reports. The development prompted speculation in political circles, though no official reason was given for his departure.

The protests were largely in support of former Prime Minister Imran Khan, who has been in custody since August 2023. His supporters gathered in large numbers, raising slogans and demanding his release, while authorities deployed additional security personnel in sensitive areas.

In Karachi, activists from Jamaat-e-Islami staged a demonstration under the banner of the “Let Karachi Live” campaign. Protesters marched towards the Sindh Assembly, demanding urgent improvements to the city’s roads, drainage system and civic infrastructure.

Police erected barricades to prevent the march from advancing, leading to confrontations. Authorities alleged that some demonstrators pelted stones and set fire to parked vehicles. Police responded by firing tear gas shells and later resorted to baton charges to disperse the crowd. At least 10 people were detained, including local leaders accused of inciting unrest. Officers also seized the sound equipment being used during the protest.

Security has also been heightened for Bilawal Bhutto Zardari and Asifa Bhutto in Islamabad. Officials have not disclosed the reasons for the increased protection.

In Rawalpindi, tensions intensified amid reports that authorities were considering transferring Imran Khan from Adiala Jail to another prison or possibly a hospital. Although there has been no official confirmation, news of a potential transfer led to gatherings of his supporters outside the jail premises. A heavy police presence was deployed to prevent any escalation.

Protests and road blockades were reported in several parts of the country, disrupting traffic on major highways and causing inconvenience to the public. Authorities said the situation was being closely monitored.