Imran Khan has warned the government to stage fresh elections or face more mass protests, after leading thousands to a showdown with his political rivals. The long march culminated on a rather disappointing note after the PTI chairman didn’t stage a sit-in.
The federal capital witnessed a chaotic day as roads were blockaded and clashes broke out between police and protestors. The government attempted to prevent the convoy from reaching the city by shutting down all entry and exits points but was forced to allow them after the Supreme Court’s order.
Eventually, Imran Khan issued an ultimatum to announce elections within six days, warning he would return to stage a fresh rally next week if elections were not scheduled. Ever since being removed from power, Imran Khan has heaped pressure on the coalition government by staging mass protests and public rallies. He has been ever since calling for fresh elections.
Thousands of supporters heeded to his call to march to the capital even though rival parties claim the turnout was not as expected. The party has been blamed for failing to mobilise workers in Punjab. This could be either due to obstacles placed in their way or because the march was held from Peshawar instead of Lahore.
The government also seemed to have over-reacted with high-handed action. The use of state machinery to quell protests is seldom effective and must be avoided. The PTI also needs to better prepare for street mobilisation rather than leaving even its most ardent supporters government in the lurch.
It needs to be seen if there will be a need for another long march. If the government fails to adhere to the ultimatum, it will be an improbable task for the PTI to mobilise its supporters again within days. It is hoped that positive development could take place within the next few days.
The optimism seems to have come amid reports that a caretaker setup could be announced soon. The government has expedited electoral reforms and the IMF loan programme has been delayed. The government does not want to carry the burden of hiking fuel prices and would be glad to pass on the responsibility to the interim setup. The political crisis still continues and there is no knowing what lies ahead.
