Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi has issued a stern warning against those planning to launch an “onslaught on Islamabad,” as the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) intends to hold a demonstration at the capital’s D-Chowk area on Friday.

As part of its anti-government campaign, the former ruling party, founded by Imran Khan, is organizing protests to demand the “independence” of the judiciary and the release of the former prime minister from prison.

The protest is set to coincide with the final day of the Malaysian Prime Minister’s visit to Pakistan and the upcoming Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit. Authorities have already imposed Section 144 and enforced the “Peaceful Assembly and Public Order Act, 2024,” which regulates public gatherings in designated areas of Islamabad.

“The PTI leadership should reconsider their call for a protest. No one will be allowed to storm Islamabad,” the Minister emphasized during a press conference with federal police officials.

Naqvi reiterated that Section 144 is already enforced in Islamabad, cautioning that authorities are prepared to manage any potential protests.

He noted that foreign delegations, including those from China and Saudi Arabia, are expected in the capital, stating that the upcoming SCO summit on October 15 and 16 is crucial for Pakistan.

“Paramilitary forces, the army, and Rangers have been deployed to ensure security in the capital,” he added.

The Minister stressed that national interests must take precedence over political agendas, urging that any actions that could damage the country’s reputation should be avoided.

“We hope that KP Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur will refrain from any actions that could bring disrepute to the nation,” he stated.

“The PTI is a Pakistani party, not a foreign entity. When a head of state is present in Islamabad, planning a protest at that time is completely inappropriate,” Naqvi remarked.

He cautioned that even a minor incident during the Malaysian Prime Minister’s visit could have lasting repercussions for the country. “You have until tomorrow to reconsider your protest call, as there is no authorization to proceed with an assault,” he said.

“If anyone engages in disruptive actions tomorrow, they should not expect any leniency. This is a critical situation for us,” the Minister warned, adding that those caught should not expect the administration to show mercy.

He further indicated that the police are fully prepared for any arrivals in the capital, stating that no complaints should arise if individuals are dealt with firmly.

Pakistan is preparing to host the SCO summit starting October 15, with Foreign Office Spokesperson Mumtaz Zahra Baloch announcing that the event will include a ministerial meeting and several rounds of senior officials’ discussions, focusing on enhancing cooperation in finance, economics, socio-cultural affairs, and humanitarian efforts among member states.