Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi has warned that he could be arrested or disqualified before September 27, when Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) workers plan to march from Peshawar toward Islamabad.
In his first special television interview, Afridi confirmed that the September 27 protest remains the party’s planned date. He said the demonstration could extend beyond one day and potentially involve multiple locations.
Sohail Afridi Confirms September 27 Protest
Afridi said Islamabad would remain the main destination for the planned PTI march.
However, he said protesters could also consider Rawalpindi and Adiala Jail as destinations depending on developments.
The PTI leader said the party would announce additional details approximately one week before the planned protest.
Afridi also insisted that the KP government would not use official machinery or public resources to support the demonstration.
According to him, PTI workers would participate in the protest and the party would arrange the resources required for the march.
PTI Workers Demand Imran Khan’s Release
Afridi said the primary demand of the September 27 march would be the release of PTI founder Imran Khan.
The second demand would involve allowing Khan’s family members, lawyers and personal doctor to meet him.
Afridi said PTI could reconsider its protest plans if authorities removed restrictions on meetings with Khan.
He also acknowledged that Khan’s release would ultimately depend on judicial proceedings, arguing that his party leader should be released if his cases are decided on merit.
Afridi Rejects Use of Force
The KP chief minister described PTI as a political organisation rather than an armed group and rejected the use of violence during the demonstration.
He also dismissed the possibility that roadblocks or shipping containers could prevent supporters from reaching their destinations.
Afridi said PTI workers would take to the streets on September 27 and claimed authorities would not be able to stop the planned march.
Sohail Afridi Warns of Arrest or Disqualification
Afridi also raised the possibility that he could lose his position or be arrested before the protest.
“I may be disqualified or arrested before September 27,” he said.
He added that he had recorded a video message in case he was detained or otherwise prevented from participating in the political campaign.
Despite those concerns, Afridi said his immediate priority remains preparations for the September 27 demonstration.
PTI Leadership Consulted Over March
Afridi said PTI leaders agreed on the protest date following consultations with members of Tehreek Tahafuz Aain Pakistan.
He said Mahmood Khan Achakzai and Allama Raja Nasir Abbas were also involved in discussions surrounding the protest plans.
The proposed march comes amid continuing political tensions surrounding Imran Khan, his imprisonment and his ongoing legal cases.
Afridi expressed hope that 2026 would become the year of Imran Khan’s release, while maintaining that PTI would continue its political campaign for his freedom.
