PTI Launches Anti-Government Drive as Gandapur’s Convoy Arrives in Lahore

Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) ignited its anti-government campaign on July 12, 2025, as a convoy led by Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur reached Lahore, marking the start of a 90-day “do-or-die” movement to secure the release of party founder Imran Khan. The campaign, expected to peak on August 5, aims to challenge the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N)-led coalition. This article examines the movement’s launch, objectives, and surrounding tensions.

The convoy, including PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan and Punjab Assembly Opposition Leader Malik Ahmad Khan Bhachar, traveled from Islamabad to Lahore via GT Road, stopping in Jhelum to rally supporters. Gandapur, speaking at a late-night gathering at a Raiwind farmhouse, declared Lahore the “political hub” for PTI’s push, stating, “Any protest campaign launched from Lahore earns success,” as reported by The Indian Express. The movement’s primary demand is the release of Imran Khan, who has been imprisoned since August 2023 on charges PTI claims are politically motivated. Gandapur also accused the government of imposing an “undeclared martial law,” escalating rhetoric against the PML-N administration.

Despite concerns of police blockades, the convoy entered Lahore without incident. However, according to ARY News, Punjab police arrested several PTI workers, including Yasir Gillani, at Shahdara Chowk. A PTI spokesperson alleged that at least 20 party workers were detained across Punjab to discourage participation. Punjab police denied this claim, saying only a few arrests were made in isolated incidents. The crackdown followed the suspension of 26 PTI Members of Provincial Assembly (MPAs) from the Punjab Assembly, which Gandapur described as “illegal” and warned of possible retaliatory actions in KP. These developments reflect intensifying political tensions and what PTI sees as efforts by the government to suppress its momentum.

PTI’s campaign strategy, finalized in Lahore, involves province-wide protests tailored to local issues. Members of Imran Khan’s family are expected to participate, according to Geo News. Gandapur emphasized the importance of grassroots mobilization, urging party officials to either fully commit or step aside. The movement’s success hinges on maintaining public support amid legal and political challenges, including a recent Supreme Court ruling that denied PTI reserved seats in parliament. As Lahore becomes the epicenter of this political showdown, Pakistan braces for a turbulent 90 days that could reshape the national landscape.