KP govt planning unrest through long march: Khawaja Asif

He also alleged that a situation similar to the July 2024 Bannu incident was being planned., the incident involved an attack on a cantonment by the Gul Bahadur group of the TTP, in which eight security personnel were killed, followed by a protest in Bannu on July 19 involving political and nationalist elements.

The defence minister further alleged that plans were in place to create disorder near military or police installations during the long march. Asif issued a warning to the PTI-led provincial government and the organisers of the march, saying that any attempt to carry out violence similar to the May 9 incidents would be dealt with firmly.

He stressed that there was a clear distinction between political struggle and armed rebellion. “Political struggle and armed rebellion are two different things,” Asif said, adding that any attempt to launch an armed rebellion in collaboration with the TTP under the guise of political activity would be viewed as an attack on the country’s integrity.

He said the state would use all available resources to defend the country. The allegations come as the PTI prepares for its planned long march towards Islamabad on October 4, while government and opposition representatives are holding negotiations.