Long March Scheduled to Depart from Peshawar on October 4, Announces Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Soheil Afridi announced that the long march will commence from Peshawar on October 4. During a press conference, Afridi emphasized the determination of the rally, sta

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Soheil Afridi announced that the long march will commence from Peshawar on October 4. During a press conference, Afridi emphasized the determination of the rally, stating, "Regardless of the obstacles placed in our path, the long march will take place and will be peaceful."

Long march: Allegations of Government Interference

Afridi accused government officials from other provinces of engaging in confrontation with Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s own representatives. He claimed that the provincial secretariat had been shut down under the guise of a fabricated threat.

Internal Discussions of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf Party

Earlier, details from a meeting of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) political committee revealed that the long march had been postponed until October 5. Reports indicated that convoys from the Peshawar region would reach Swabi on October 4, followed by a departure to Islamabad on October 5.

Strategy for Political Pressure

Some committee members expressed concerns about the sensitive situation, recommending a temporary delay in the long march to increase political pressure on the federal government. The meeting also noted ongoing discussions with other opposition parties to enhance the impact of the protest. A decision was made to formally announce the postponement after securing the confidence of Mahmood Achakzai and Allama Nasir Abbas.

Communication with Opposition Leaders

Chief Minister Soheil Afridi reached out to Opposition Leader in the National Assembly, Mahmood Achakzai, who reportedly advised maintaining the long march call. Concurrently, PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar met with opposition leaders Achakzai and Allama Nasir Abbas.