Understand
Supporters of jailed former Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan march towards Islamabad
Overview
Supporters of jailed former Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan have begun a long march from the north-west towards the capital, Islamabad, demanding his release and proper medical care. Around 5,000 people from Khan's Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party took to the streets after talks between the government and party leaders ended in deadlock. Authorities in Islamabad have blocked key access routes using shipping containers, while political tensions and disputes over negotiations and Khan's health continue.
Key points
- Around 5,000 supporters of Imran Khan began a march from Lakki Marwat towards Islamabad, demanding his release.
- The march was launched after talks between the government and PTI leaders ended in deadlock.
- Demonstrators are calling for proper medical care and access for the 73-year-old jailed former prime minister.
- Authorities in Islamabad have blocked key access routes to the capital using shipping containers.
- Imran Khan has been imprisoned since August 2023 on various charges, which he maintains are politically motivated.