What's happened
Protests in Islamabad demanding the release of former Prime Minister Imran Khan have intensified, leading to violent clashes with police. Khan's wife, Bushra Bibi, has been at the forefront of the demonstrations, which have resulted in multiple deaths and thousands of arrests since they began on November 24, 2024.
Why it matters
What the papers say
According to The Independent, 'Khan’s wife Bushra Bibi led thousands of people... to march on the capital Islamabad to demand the release of Khan.' The Associated Press highlights that 'Khan already has more than 150 cases against him but supporters say they are politically motivated.' Meanwhile, the New York Times notes that 'the police used tear gas and rubber bullets against the demonstrators,' indicating the severity of the government's response. This contrast in coverage illustrates the ongoing debate about the legitimacy of the protests and the government's actions.
How we got here
Imran Khan, ousted in 2022, has been imprisoned since August 2023 on over 150 charges, which his supporters claim are politically motivated. The protests began as a long march from the northwest to Islamabad, demanding his release.
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Imran Ahmed Khan Niazi HI PP is the 22nd and current Prime Minister of Pakistan and the chairman of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf.
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Bushra Bibi Khan is the First Lady of Pakistan and third spouse of the Prime Minister of Pakistan Imran Khan. She and Khan married six months before he assumed office as Prime Minister.
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