The PTI caravan reaches Peshawar as Chief Minister Sohail Afridi leads the party’s long
march into the provincial capital. The convoy entered Peshawar on Thursday evening during the
fifth day of the ongoing political protest march. Hundreds of PTI supporters gathered at
Hayatabad Toll Plaza to welcome the convoy and its leadership. Afridi told supporters that the
movement would continue despite political pressure and government opposition. He said that no
local or international alliance could defeat the movement supported by PTI workers. The chief
minister said political power belongs to ordinary people in a democratic country. He also said
people in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa were standing firmly with Imran Khan. Afridi announced that the
convoy would continue towards Swabi after passing through several districts. He said the party
would reveal its next major strategy after reaching Swabi. The PTI leadership has changed the
march route several times since the protest began.

The PTI long march started from Lakki Marwat on October 4 after negotiations between the PTI
and the federal government failed. The discussions ended without agreement over several
issues including counterterrorism policy and meetings with Imran Khan. PTI had initially planned
a march towards Islamabad but the final route remains uncertain at this stage. PTI Chairman
Barrister Gohar Khan also called for renewed political talks during a press conference in
Charsadda. He said both sides should leave their rigid positions and find a peaceful solution for
the country. Gohar said PTI remained willing to continue meaningful negotiations with the
government. He also opposed any possible governor’s rule or emergency in Khyber
Pakhtunkhwa. According to Gohar such measures could increase political anger and create
further instability across the province. He also rejected allegations that PTI or its supporters
supported terrorism in the country. Gohar called for a national strategy against terrorism
involving political parties and relevant state institutions. He also suggested an all-parties
conference to create a united position against terrorism. PTI has announced that the march will
reach Charsadda on October 9 and Mardan on October 10. The convoy is expected to reach
Swabi on October 11 where the next plan will be announced. The political situation remains
tense as both sides continue to disagree over important national and provincial issues.

Source: Media Channel

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