Calls for Revolution, Civil Disobedience in Pakistan as Protests Continue

Imran Khan speaking at the World Economic Forum in 2012. (Photo: World Economic Forum)

Calls for Revolution, Civil Disobedience in Pakistan as Protests Continue

“There is only one way to get rid of this government, which is to launch a civil disobedience campaign from today,” Khan told protesters Sunday

Opponents of Pakistan's Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif have issued calls for a revolution and mass civil disobedience as days of protest bring chaos to the capital of Islamadad.

Tens of thousands of people have been taking part in demonstrations led by former cricket star-turned politician Imran Khan of the Pakistan Tehreek e Insaf (PTI) party and cleric and activist Tahirul Qadri of the Pakistan Awami Tehreek party.

The two have called for Sharif to resign, accusing his government of fraud. On Thursday they began separate convoy protests from Lahore to the capital.

"There is only one way to get rid of this government, which is to launch a civil disobedience campaign from today," Khan told protesters Sunday.

"We don't want mid-term elections ... what we want is revolution," Qadri said.

On Monday, Kahn said he would defy a government ban and lead a march on Tuesday into Islamabad's "red zone," where government offices are located, unless his demands were met.

"Tomorrow's foray into the prohibited zone is part of the struggle for real democray, for freedom and to get rid of corrupt rulers. I invite fellow country from all regions and places to join the march," Khan said.

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