Imran Khan supporters call for protests / UN urges Afghan refugees not to participate in march

Afghan Voice Agency (AVA):  United Nations has called on Afghan refugees not to participate in the march, calling for anti-government protests on the anniversary of their massive demonstrations against the election results and in support of Mr. Khan. The organization also called on Afghans to refrain from participating in political activities.

 

The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) issued a statement late Friday urging Afghan refugees in Pakistan to respect the country's laws and regulations.

 

The UN stressed that Afghans must adhere to measures taken to maintain public order.

 

"Refrain from political activities against the host country," the statement said. These activities may be criminalized and can have a direct and negative impact on public attitudes towards Afghans in Pakistan.”

 

The statement, published in four languages: Persian, Pashto, Urdu and English, also urged Afghan refugees to refrain from engaging in "abnormal" behavior to protect themselves and their children.

 

The PTI was scheduled to hold a large march on Saturday to mark the anniversary of Pakistan's national elections. The party has declared the day a "black day" because of the "stolen votes".

The party's supporters are scheduled to participate in the march in Suwai, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and some other areas. The PTI has called on its supporters across Pakistan to attend the rally.

 

The march was originally scheduled to be held at the Pakistan Minar in Lahore, but Pakistani officials rejected the PTI's request due to security concerns.