For the 16th day in a row, a handful of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) workers from various districts have remained seated at the rest area near Swabi Interchange on the Peshawar-Islamabad Motorway. This protest marks its 16th consecutive day following a sit-in that began on February 13.
Initially, the demonstration was initiated by PTI activists who were determined to draw attention to their jailed party founder Imran Khan’s health condition, specifically highlighting his deteriorating vision since being transferred from Adiala Jail. The protesters demanded that he be moved to a more suitable and well-equipped hospital such as Al-Shifa International Hospital.
The sit-in initially disrupted traffic for the first five days, with many activists remaining steadfast despite police intervention aimed at restoring normal highway operations. Most demonstrators eventually left, leaving behind a small core of dedicated workers who continue their vigil at the site.
These protesters have since voiced strong criticism towards the leadership of PTI, including former National Assembly Speaker Asad Qaiser and provincial ministers Shahram Khan Tarkai and Abdul Karim Khan, pointing fingers accusing them of neglecting the party’s members’ welfare.
While the initial sit-in garnered significant media attention, causing traffic disruptions for days on end, it has now settled into a prolonged protest that continues to challenge the party’s top brass. The small group remains at their post, a testament to their commitment and defiance towards what they perceive as a betrayal by leadership figures who have failed them in times of need.