Islamabad: The political situation in Pakistan intensified on Wednesday as thousands of supporters of jailed former Prime Minister Imran Khan occupied the strategically significant Attock Bridge in Khyber province, demanding his release.
Members of Khan’s party, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), gathered in large numbers on both ends of the bridge, leading to a massive traffic blockade and long queues of stranded vehicles. The bridge is considered a vital link connecting Khyber Pakhtunkhwa with the rest of the country.
Amid rising tensions, Pakistan Army Chief Asim Munir reportedly dispatched around 5,000 troops from Islamabad, Peshawar and Rawalpindi Cantonment areas to prevent further escalation.
Meanwhile, Khyber’s Chief Minister Suhail Afridi announced the formation of an “Imran Release Force,” urging youth supporters to mobilise. In a related development, the Tehreek-e-Tahaffuz Pakistan (TTP) also declared plans to march towards Islamabad in support of Khan.
Province Faces Disruption
The occupation of Attock Bridge effectively disrupted connectivity between Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and other regions, triggering panic and uncertainty. Authorities acted swiftly to deploy additional security forces to manage the situation and maintain order.
Imran Khan in Jail Since 2023
Imran Khan has been lodged in Adiala Jail in Islamabad since August 2023. He is currently serving a 14-year sentence in the Toshakhana corruption case. His wife, Bushra Bibi, is also incarcerated at the same facility.
Khan faces over 100 legal cases, with several matters pending in lower courts and high courts across the country.
Political Undercurrents
Observers note that Army Chief Asim Munir has had a strained relationship with Khan. During his tenure as Prime Minister, Khan had removed Munir from the post of ISI chief a move widely seen as a turning point in their political dynamics.
Analysts also suggest that despite domestic pressure and international campaigns calling for Khan’s release, including the “Free Imran” movement, there has been no visible external diplomatic push compelling Pakistan’s establishment to alter its stance.
With national elections approaching and political divisions deepening, the unfolding situation signals a fresh phase of instability in Pakistan.
