‘Azadi March’ to be allowed within ambit of law

“It was decided that the Government, with its firm belief in upholding democratic ideals, would allow the proposed Azadi March, if it takes place within the ambit of law and the Constitution as interpreted in the decisions of the Supreme Court and Islamabad High Court,” it said.

The opposition parties, led by Jammiat Ulema-e-Islam (JUI-F) leader Maulana Fazlur Rahman, had already announced that the march will be held in the capital on October 31.

The team, led by Pervez Khattak, was given a go-ahead by the government to hold negotiations with the opposition parties, but the opposition allegedly showed obstinacy in responding to the government’s offer, and stuck to their “undemocratic demands”.

Apparent confusion still persists among opposition leaders over the holding of the Azadi March as the two major opposition parties, including Pakistan Muslim League-N and Pakistan People’s Party, have only vaguely hinted about joining the JUI-F in its protest.

The Islamabad High Court last week had also made rulings on a set of petitions regarding the holding of the Azadi March, directing the local administration to uphold the rights of the citizens residing in the capiral. It also directed the administration to decide on the JUI-F application for holding the proposed march ‘as per law’.

JUI-F is a religious political party with very strong following of religious hardliners across the country, especially in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province.

The Azadi March will begin across the country on October 27 and will reach Islamabad on October 31.

While Pakistan is facing a mammoth economic challenge and growing tensions with India over the Kashmir issue, the Azadi (freedom) March may delay Imran’s plans to bring the country out of crisis if he survives the opposition onslaught and public anger over rising cost of living, increasing unemployment and worsening economic situation.

“Imran Khan must resign to solve all issues facing Pakistan as he is the ‘biggest problem’,” demanded Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, Chairman of the PPP, which rules Sindh province. Speaking to reporters in Islamabad on Tuesday, Bilawal, said that he would support the JUI-F’s Azadi March to remove Imran Khan from power.

“With his [prime minister’s] resignation, all issues in Pakistan would be resolved,” said Bilawal. His criticism of Imran has intensified since his father and former President of Pakistan Asif Ali Zardari was sent to jail on corruption charges. Bilawal also reiterated his pledge to overthrow the government and send Imran Khan home. “Prime Minister Imran Khan is a hurdle when it comes to the restoration of democracy, economic revival and media freedom. He is the biggest problem in Pakistan. That is why, he should resign and spare the lives of the people. Every issue can be resolved after his resignation,” he demanded.