LAHORE (Web Desk) – Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi reached Lahore on Friday evening as the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf prepared to kick off a new street movement, with a major public gathering expected at Liberty Roundabout tonight.
https://x.com/i/status/2004556176072056928
Videos shared by PTI on X showed the CM’s convoy entering Punjab earlier in the day, facing reported blockades at toll plazas including Chakri and Bhera, where vehicles of workers and supporters were stopped, and several workers allegedly arrested.
Read also:KP belongs to the chairman: Sohail Afridi elected KP CM, pledges to fight for Imran Khan
Upon arrival, CM Afridi’s vehicle was showered with flowers by supporters as he visited the residence of PTI leader Latif Khosa. Speaking to the media alongside Khosa, Afridi said the people of Punjab had come out in support of the party because they stand with one leader — Imran Ahmed Khan Niazi — adding that “democratic governments do not block roads or stop supporters.”
https://www.facebook.com/share/v/1MGmgX4Xt6/
The KP CM is expected to visit the Punjab Assembly, where the Opposition Leader Moeen Riaz Qureshi has formally requested administrative and security arrangements for the visit, including protocol and media coordination. PTI has posted footage of opposition lawmakers gathering at the Assembly to welcome Afridi.
Meanwhile, Punjab Information Minister Azma Bukhari welcomed the KP CM “as a guest,” saying he is free to visit, tour, and enjoy Lahore, but warned that any abusive language, chaos, or damage to public property will not be tolerated. Calling Lahore “the Europe of Pakistan,” she said Punjab would offer hospitality but expected respect in return, adding that police presence around key points is part of maintaining order.
PTI leaders, including Shafiullah Jan and Meena Khan Afridi, claimed the “tsunami” of support will still reach Lahore “despite hurdles,” asserting that this is only practice ahead of a larger movement. PTI Punjab chief organiser Aliya Hamza Malik also urged ticket-holders and supporters to gather at Liberty Roundabout, calling this moment historic as the party aims to launch a mass protest for the release of Imran Khan.
