Sanaullah Urges PTI to Avoid Protest on Independence Day

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Adviser to the Prime Minister on Political Affairs, Rana Sanaullah, has called on Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) to reconsider its plan to hold nationwide protests on August 14, Pakistan’s Independence Day. He stressed the importance of marking the day with unity and harmony, rather than political discord.

Speaking during a televised interview, Sanaullah criticized PTI’s decision to schedule protests on a day of national significance. While affirming the opposition’s right to protest, he said that holding demonstrations on Independence Day risks creating disorder and undermines the spirit of unity that the day symbolizes. He described this decision as “extremely unfortunate” and inconsistent with national traditions.

Sanaullah referred to PTI’s protest on August 5, which coincided with a day of solidarity with Kashmir, and accused the party of placing political agendas above national interests. He further alleged that some PTI leaders had incited violence and suggested there were secret plans to disrupt public order during the upcoming protests.

The adviser urged PTI to engage in dialogue with the government as an alternative to protests on the national holiday. He reiterated Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s standing offer for talks aimed at resolving political differences. However, Sanaullah noted that PTI leadership has reportedly declined multiple invitations to negotiate.

In addition, Sanaullah warned that law enforcement agencies would respond firmly to any attempts to disturb law and order on August 14, emphasizing the government’s commitment to maintaining peace during the celebrations.

These comments come amid increasing political tensions, as PTI plans protests to demand the release of its founder, Imran Khan, and to challenge government policies. The government has expressed concerns that protests on such a significant day could destabilize the country and detract from the holiday’s intended purpose.

Sanaullah’s remarks emphasize the need for political maturity and the importance of preserving Independence Day as a unifying occasion for Pakistan. He encouraged PTI to choose an alternative date for demonstrations, allowing the nation to celebrate its shared heritage peacefully.