‘Black Day’: PTI seeks permission for Minar-e-Pakistan rally on Feb 8

LAHORE: The Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) has applied for permission to hold a public gathering in Lahore on February 8 to observe a “Black Day” following the collapse of negotiations with the coalition government.

The opposition party submitted an application to the deputy commissioner’s office and sought the local administration’s approval for a public gathering at the Minar-e-Pakistan ground, also known as Iqbal Park, next month. The application, a copy of which was obtained by Geo News, stated that PTI leader and Opposition Leader in the Punjab Assembly Malik Ahmad Khan Bachar and Ali Ijaz Buttar will lead the forthcoming power show.

PTI leader Aliya Hamza, addressing the media outside the DC office, stated that her party sought permission to observe “Youm-e-Siyah [Black Day]” on February 8 — the day when the public mandate was stolen [one year ago]”. She was referring to the results of last year’s general elections.

The PTI stalwart questioned: “Every party is allowed to hold rallies at Minar-e-Pakistan, so why not us?” She warned that her party would use all legal options if the authorities denied permission to the PTI. Aliya added that a “Black Day” would be observed across the country if the opposition party was not allowed to hold its event in Lahore.

To a question related to fresh amendments to the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (Peca), the former lawmaker alleged that the legislation reflected the existence of an “oppressive system” in the country. She added that freedom of expression should not be suppressed.