PTI protest convoys depart from Peshawar, Bannu, and Punjab to the capital.

PTI prepared for its much-touted power show in Islamabad on Sunday, despite mobile and internet restrictions, massive security, and court rulings labeling it “unlawful”.

On November 13, Imran issued a “final call” for nationwide rallies on November 24 (today), condemning what he described as the stolen mandate, unjust arrests, and the passing of the 26th amendment, which he claimed strengthened a “dictatorial regime”.

Since Imran was arrested on many counts in August 2023, his party has held protests across the country calling for his release and condemning the alleged rigging of the February 8 elections.

The Islamabad High Court (IHC) has ruled that the PTI’s planned protest is illegal and directed the federal government to take all necessary steps to maintain law and order in Islamabad without disrupting public life, especially since the Belarusian president is expected to arrive over the weekend with a high-profile delegation.

Mobile internet services are down throughout the city, and major highways, including motorways, are congested with containers.

Rallies from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, where the PTI is in control, left for Islamabad early this morning, according to the correspondent.

MPAs and MNAs from their various seats are leading their convoys, which would join the protests at Burhan near the Hazara interchange, according to the correspondent, who cited PTI leader Shaukat Yousafzai.

However, a large police detachment is stationed on GT Road and the motorway near Attock’s Hassanabdal to prevent the procession from reaching Islamabad.

The Islamabad police said in a post earlier today that Rawat T Cross was closed for traffic on both sides, with only one lane open at Chowrangi No.26 for traffic traveling both directions.

“However, internal roads in Islamabad are partially open for traffic, which can be used in case of extreme need,” the police added, encouraging locals to avoid unnecessary travel.

Nacta’s ‘terrorist’ alert
Also on Saturday, the National Counter Terrorism Authority (Nacta) issued a notice for possible terrorist strikes during the PTI’s march to Islamabad, according to trustworthy sources.

According to reports, the notice was issued after the highest counter-terrorism organization acquired “technical and human” evidence indicating that terrorists were planning “major activities” in Pakistan’s major cities.

Multiple sources confirmed “necessary preparations” by terrorists in Afghanistan, who “entered Pakistan” on the night of November 19-20. According to the reports, they planned to station themselves in major cities.

According to sources, the terrorists, known as Fitna-al-Khawarij by the government and military, may target the PTI demonstration “for their vested interest”.