In response to the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI)’s planned protest in Islamabad on October 15, Minister for Defence Khawaja Asif has said that the government would not allow the country to be held hostage by any political party, especially as the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit is set to take place.

The PTI’s decision to hold a demonstration at D-Chowk coincides with the inaugural day of the SCO summit, raising concerns as the capital prepares to host foreign dignitaries.

Asif criticized PTI leaders as “pawns” in international conspiracies, recalling previous protests that he claims destabilized the country.

Sherry Rehman, a leader of the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), condemned the PTI’s actions, asserting that the protest would jeopardize Pakistan’s reputation and security during a significant international event.

She suggested that the PTI has not learned from past mistakes, referencing prior protests that disrupted diplomatic relations.

Minister for Information Attaullah Tarar assured the media that Islamabad has been secured for the SCO conference, emphasizing that any attempts to disrupt the event would not be tolerated.

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He noted that the government has finalized all necessary security arrangements to ensure a successful summit.

Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F) spokesperson Aslam Ghori expressed his party’s disapproval of the PTI’s protest, advocating for unity during the presence of foreign delegates and suggesting that protests could be held after the summit.

Meanwhile, PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan has instructed party officials to prepare for the D-Chowk protest, which follows a recent clash with law enforcement during an anti-government demonstration.

The PTI has been vocal about the detention of its founder, Imran Khan, and is demanding his immediate release along with the restoration of rights for its members.

The political climate remains tense as the PTI’s protest approaches, with the government determined to ensure the SCO summit proceeds without disruption.