Major Opposition Parties Plan Independent Protests on Election Anniversary

Major opposition parties, including Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), are preparing for protests on February 8 to commemorate the second anniversary of general elections. However, no unified front has emerged as key parties have announced separate plans. The Tehreek-e-Tahafuz-e-Ayeen Pakistan (TTAP) alliance, led by PTI and including other major opposition groups, held a meeting in Islamabad to strategize for February 8. The plan includes a one-day protest instead of a prolonged anti-government campaign. Leaders from the Pakhtunkhwa Milli Awami Party (PKMAP), Mahmood Khan Achakzai, confirmed that the protest would be limited to a single day, emphasizing peaceful cooperation and constitutional rights. Meanwhile, Jamiat-e-Ulema Islam (F) also announced its participation in protests on February 8.

TTAP has already called for a nationwide strike to mark what it claims were rigged elections, designating February 8 as a “Black Day.” The party’s leader expressed that while the protest is limited to one day, they may consider extending their campaign if necessary. Achakzai hinted at further action in the future, suggesting a potential Jail Bharo movement.

In contrast, JUI-F has also declared February 8 as a Black Day against what it perceives as fraudulent elections of 2024. The party plans to hold nationwide protests with a central gathering and additional events at provincial headquarters. JUI-F’s spokesperson Aslam Ghauri stated that the opposition group will not join forces with TTAP, emphasizing their stance on constitutional supremacy and criticising government actions.

Despite these differences in strategy and participation, both TTAP and JUI-F have expressed openness to meet for discussions regarding future actions and potential coordination of protests. TTAP’s spokesperson welcomed JUI-F’s announcement, suggesting they would convene meetings to coordinate efforts towards a unified front.