ISLAMABAD – Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf’s September 27 long march has been thrown into fresh uncertainty, with October 5 emerging as a possible new date amid mounting security restrictions, blocked routes and growing debate within the party over the feasibility of the Islamabad mobilisation.
The reported development comes as PTI leaders grapple with the challenge of bringing thousands of supporters into the capital while major entry routes remain restricted and an extensive security operation has been put in place across Islamabad and parts of Punjab.
The possibility of postponement has triggered intense discussion inside PTI, with lawmakers reportedly questioning whether the party can effectively mobilise workers under the prevailing restrictions. Some party members have pushed for political negotiations with the federal government, while an All Parties Conference in early October has also been proposed as tensions continue to build.
But the reported postponement has not been unanimously confirmed by PTI.
PTI Information Secretary Sheikh Waqas Akram has maintained that no decision to delay the march was under discussion and said preparations for the September 27 mobilisation were continuing. PTI KP Information Secretary Shaukat Yousafzai has also insisted that the party is fully prepared, reiterating that the planned protest will remain peaceful.
October 5 date has gained prominence as PTI considers its options amid the rapidly changing political and security situation. Some party leaders have linked a possible postponement to progress on major demands, including the release of Imran Khan and other political prisoners, fresh elections, and investigations into the May 9 and November 26 events.
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However, PTI leaders have stressed that any final decision on the march will require approval from the party’s top leadership.
PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan has meanwhile stepped up calls for dialogue with the government, urging political engagement instead of confrontation. The uncertainty comes as the federal government has dramatically intensified security preparations ahead of the proposed mobilisation.
Rangers have been deployed in Islamabad and several districts of Punjab, with the deployment authorised until October 5.
Authorities have also restricted major routes leading towards the federal capital and prepared additional measures to control movement, prevent violence and maintain law and order. The growing security clampdown has added another major logistical challenge for PTI, particularly if the party attempts to bring supporters into Islamabad from other parts of the country.
Minister of State for Interior Talal Chaudhry has expressed hope that the political standoff can be defused before September 27, saying there remains an opportunity for dialogue while warning against confrontation. PTI, meanwhile, continues to insist that its mobilisation will be peaceful.
The party has directed workers not to carry sticks, slingshots or weapons during the protest. Shaukat Yousafzai has warned that anyone carrying such items would not be recognised as part of the PTI demonstration.
Barrister Gohar has similarly called for authorities to avoid confrontation and listen to the party’s grievances.
