Following Imran Khan’s detention a day earlier, the UN Secretary-General has called for an end to the violence that has persisted in some areas of Pakistan.
António Guterres, the head of the UN, noted the ongoing demonstrations in a statement released by his spokesperson and urged “for all parties to refrain from violence.”
All sides are urged to avoid using violence, according to Mr. Guterres. He emphasises the importance of upholding one’s freedom to peaceful assembly,” the brief statement concluded.
Additionally, the head of the UN pleaded with the authorities “to respect due process and the rule of law in proceedings brought against former Prime Minister Khan.”
In respect to the accusations over an alleged unlawful transfer of land, Mr. Khan, who held the position of prime minister for four years starting in 2018, was detained in detention for eight days.
The PTI leader was detained on the grounds of the Islamabad High Court on Tuesday after being arrested by scores of security personnel, prompting a large-scale uprising among his followers.\
Eight individuals have already lost their lives during the protests, and hundreds more have been hurt. Hundreds of people have been detained nationally.
Mobile internet and social media connectivity seemed to be down on Wednesday due to ongoing protests, while Punjab, Pakistan’s most populous state, shuttered its schools and institutions.
At least 130 police officers were hurt during fights, at least 25 police cars were set on fire, and several government buildings were plundered.