Karachi rally: Afridi criticises Sindh govt for ‘cruel’ police action

KARACHI: Chief Minister Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Sohail Afridi on Sunday strongly criticised the PPP-led Sindh government for what he termed “cruelty” against PTI workers in Karachi on the eve of a public rally near Mazar-e-Quaid, saying he would never forget the police action.

Addressing roadside gatherings at multiple locations while leading a public mobilization march towards Mazar-e-Quaid in the evening, the KP chief minister condemned what he described as police highhandedness against PTI workers and supporters throughout the day and overnight.

He thanked the people of Sindh for their hospitality and respect, but said the police action would remain unforgettable. Recalling the events, he said police created hurdles for PTI rallies across the city, resorted to teargas shelling, and arrested party workers.

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“I will remember the Sindh government for the disrespect they showed me,” Afridi said, likening the Sindh government’s actions to what he termed the “fake” Punjab government. He recalled that similar force had been used when he led a PTI public rally in Lahore.

The KP chief minister announced that PTI would launch a third phase of its public movement in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa following what he termed successful visits to Punjab and Sindh.

Addressing thousands of supporters waving PTI flags and illuminating their mobile phone lights, Afridi said neither PTI nor its founding chairman Imran Khan could be removed from Pakistan’s politics, as both represented the will of the people.

“Those who talk about ending Imran Khan’s politics and PTI should witness the scenes in Karachi today—the presence of thousands of young supporters here reflects Imran Khan’s vision,” he said.

Afridi further declared that PTI workers would “sweep the streets across the country” once Imran Khan permits the party leadership to initiate a nationwide mobilization drive. He also praised the public turnout and appreciated Sindhi culture.

The rally was still moving through various parts of the city and had not reached the final venue at the time of filing this report.

Copyright Business Recorder, 2026