LAHORE: Former Minister and PTI leader Hammad Azhar said that his elderly father, former Punjab Governor Mian Azhar was “Arrested” by police prior to an election rally. In post on social media platform X, Hammad said that his 82-year-old father, an independent candidate supported by PTI running for NA-129 constituency, intended to “Exercise his democratic and constitutional right by leading rally”.

“Pakistan has today been reduced to total fascist state with zero human rights or rule of law. One Nawaz Sharif and his daughter calling shots and ruining country.” PTI leader asserted that his father was arrested for organising an election rally however, police said that action was taken in response to violation of Election Commission’s code of conduct. PTI announced rally in Lahore, prompting imposition of Section 144 across province.

In another post on PTI’s Lahore social media platform X, multiple videos showed large number of people coming out in support of party. “Rallies are being held everywhere. Despite police brutality, no one will be able to save runaway Nawaz on February 8.” said tweet

Earlier this week, PTI’s founder, Imran Khan directed all PTI candidates for national and provincial assemblies in Lahore to participate in power show on Sunday.

As elections approach near, party encounters significant obstacles due to an apparent rise in authoritative actions by state apparatus, particularly in Punjab.

Published in The Daily National Courier, January, 29 2024

Like Business on Facebook, follow @DailyNCourier on Twitter to stay informed and join in the conversation.