ISLAMABAD — In a significant move, the Pakistani government has prohibited gatherings of five or more individuals in the capital ahead of a scheduled march organized by supporters of former Prime Minister Imran Khan.

The two-month restriction was announced on Tuesday, just days before a rally planned for Sunday by Khan’s party aimed at pressuring the government to secure the release of the former leader, who is currently incarcerated.

Officials have stated that the purpose of the ban is to maintain public order by preventing any unauthorized assemblies amid the prevailing security situation. The government announcement did not specify any particular security threats, but there has been a noticeable increase in militant violence across Pakistan in recent months.

Previously, in response to a similar major political event planned by Khan’s party, the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf, authorities imposed strict lockdown measures, effectively forcing the opposition to hold their gathering on the outskirts of the city.

Khan has been imprisoned for over a year, facing more than 150 criminal charges, which his supporters and party officials claim are founded on political motivations rather than genuine criminal wrongdoing. His political downfall occurred in 2022 following a no-confidence vote in Parliament.

Despite his legal troubles, Khan retains a substantial following, and the government has reportedly engaged in discussions with his party, urging them to delay the upcoming rally due to concerns over potential militant attacks.