A closer look: Lahore silent as supporters of Pakistan's ex-PM march to Islamabad

Thousands of supporters of jailed former Prime Minister Imran Khan's Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party have taken to the streets, marching towards Islamabad with demands for his release and the government’s resignation.

However, one critical question lingers: why did Lahore, a historic PTI stronghold, fail to produce significant numbers, leaving Punjab’s capital city eerily quiet during this pivotal moment?

Ground realities in Lahore

Lahore, a city known for its political vibrancy and as a frequent epicenter of PTI rallies, painted a markedly different picture this time around. Authorities had strategically placed shipping containers to block major entry and exit points, while highways connecting to Islamabad and Rawalpindi were completely sealed off.

The situation intensified when the National Highway and Motorway Police announced an abrupt closure of six major routes leading to the capital—four of which run through Punjab. This sudden decision effectively paralyzed movement towards Islamabad, leaving supporters stranded and stifling any large-scale mobilization.

Meanwhile, the city remained under heavy surveillance, with anti-riot forces, water cannons, and reserve police units stationed at strategic locations. Section 144 was imposed across Punjab for three days, banning all forms of protests, rallies, and sit-ins, citing security concerns.

According to PTI sources, law enforcement has arrested approximately 4,000 party workers across Punjab, including 1,000 from Lahore.

In addition to the physical barriers, the government also partially shut down internet services across key regions, including Lahore. This move was seen as an attempt to prevent the organization of protests and to limit the flow of information, further limiting PTI's ability to coordinate their actions and broadcast events to supporters.

Beyond the physical blockades, the government implemented partial internet shutdowns across key regions, including Lahore. This strategic disruption of digital communications appeared designed to prevent protest coordination and restrict information flow, further hampering PTI's ability to organize demonstrations and communicate with supporters..

A leadership crisis?

The absence of PTI’s prominent leadership added to the confusion. Many key figures remain incarcerated or face court trials, while others have gone underground to evade arrest. In Lahore, two senior PTI leaders, Secretary General Salman Akram Raja and National Assembly member Sardar Muhammad Latif Khan Khosa, were conspicuously absent from the frontlines.

While Salman Akram Raja shared videos on November 24 via social media, highlighting the ongoing crackdown, he too avoided public appearances. This lack of leadership visibility has raised concerns among supporters about the party's ability to organize under pressure and project unity during challenging times.

Government's justification and warning

During a press briefing, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi defended the government's hardline approach, insisting these measures were essential for public safety. He blamed the PTI for disrupting business activities and civilian life, framing the crackdown as a necessary step to "maintain order" rather than an attempt to suppress political opposition.

“The Red Zone in Islamabad has been sealed off to protect critical government infrastructure,” Naqvi said, warning “anyone attempting to breach it will be arrested.” The closure of major routes to the capital, coupled with the strategic internet shutdown, underscored the government's determination to contain the PTI.

Lahore's political legacy at stake

In the past, Lahore has played a pivotal role in galvanizing national movements, with massive rallies showcasing PTI’s grassroots support. This time around, the city offered only a muted response to Imran Khan's "final call".

The subdued turnout has led to speculation about whether this reflects a shift in PTI's support base, exhaustion among its followers after months of political turmoil, or simply the effectiveness of government suppression tactics.

Call it a failure of the local leadership, or simply a surrender by the public in front of the state's overwhelming force. The question remains: why did Lahore, once an energetic hub of PTI activity, fall silent at this crucial moment?