The opposition alliance — Movement for the Protection of the Constitution of Pakistan — formally launched its street mobilisation campaign after its convoy left Islamabad for Lahore on Thursday.

The convoy is led by the main opposition leader, Mahmood Khan Achakzai.

The three-day tour is part of a public outreach campaign aimed at protecting constitutional values ​​and garnering public support.

Speaking to the media before leaving, Achakzai said, “We have not come out to conquer anyone or throw stones, but we aim to protect the constitution and raise our voice against oppression”.

“A call for nationwide protests and activities has been given on February 28 in this regard”, he said.

“There will be a shutter-down strike on February 8, in which buses, trucks and other transport will remain closed, and the people will show their strength on the roads of Pakistan”, he added

The convoy includes a large number of vehicles, and the leaders of the Tehreek-e-Tahafuz Ayan-e-Pakistan are being warmly welcomed at various places.

The convoy includes other leaders of the opposition alliance, including Moin Qureshi, Allama Raja Nasir Abbas, Mustafa Nawaz Khokhar, Asad Qaiser and other central leaders.

Upon reaching Lahore, the convoy will meet political and social figures, while several important political leaders will announce their joining the movement.

According to PTI sources, Mahmood Khan Achakzai will also visit the Punjab Assembly and try to meet Shah Mahmood Qureshi, Yasmin Rashid and Mian Mahmood Rashid, who are imprisoned in Kot Lakhpat Jail.

The movement’s spokesperson said that this campaign is for the restoration of the constitution and the protection of democracy, and is the beginning of uniting the people against oppression.

Tight security arrangements have been made in Lahore after the convoy’s departure, and reports of raids and arrests at the homes of leaders and activists have also been received.

The opposition alliance has recently condemned the 27th Constitutional Amendment and announced protests against it across the country.

The movement’s leaders say that this public outreach campaign will further strengthen the demand for the protection of the constitution and fair elections.

The opposition leaders also plan public gatherings, press conferences and meetings with jailed leaders in Lahore.