Gulf crisis: Imran defers protest for 2 weeks
In view of an ongoing conflict between Iran and Israel, PTI Parton-in-Chief Imran Khan has decided to defer his party's planned protest movement by two weeks, said the former prime minister's sisters on Tuesday after a meeting with him at Rawalpindi's Adiala Jail.
"Imran Khan has postponed the protest movement for two weeks in light of global circumstances," said Noreen Khanum and Uzma Khan while talking to the media outside the prison.
According to them, the nation is awaiting statements from the prime minister, the president, and the field marshal regarding Pakistan's policy on the conflict.
On June 1, Imran announced the launch of a nationwide protest movement against the PML-N-led ruling coalition, declaring that he would lead the campaign from behind bars. The announcement was conveyed by PTI Senator Ali Zafar following his meeting with Imran.
Addressing the media outside the prison, the senator had said the former PM had decided that the waiting game was over and the party would now take to the streets in a well-organised countrywide campaign. However, he had not disclosed when the movement would be started.
Noreen noted that although the PTI founder had not met anyone for a week, he was well-informed about international affairs. "He said global developments will affect Pakistan and that all Pakistanis must unite at this time," adding that Imran is concerned over both internal and external situations.
She said Imran Khan called the proposed budget elite-culture-driven and pro-rich.
"Conditions for the poor have deteriorated significantly. The salaried class is bearing the entire tax burden, and poverty will further increase.
"33 lakh (3.3 million) educated people have left Pakistan in the past three years. Each person who leaves takes about $30,000 with them, causing also a loss of foreign exchange."
She said Imran Khan has instructed that K-P's budget will only be passed after his consultation with K-P CM Ali Amin Gandapur and other PTI leaders who are scheduled to meet him.
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