In a dramatic turn of events, Bushra Bibi, wife of jailed former Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan, led a massive protest in Islamabad that ended in chaos and violence. The march, calling for Khan’s release, represented Bibi’s unexpected political debut and highlighted the ongoing tension between Khan’s Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party and Pakistan’s military establishment.
Bibi, a faith healer known for her mysterious background, stood atop a shipping container addressing thousands of supporters, declaring, “This is not just about my husband. It is about this country and its leader.” Her appearance was significant, as she had previously been a private figure largely out of public view since her 2018 marriage to Khan.
The protest reached D Chowk, a central government district, with protesters determined to secure Khan’s release. Khan has been imprisoned for over a year on charges he claims are politically motivated. Bibi’s decision to lead the march was reportedly made against other party leaders’ advice and government appeals to choose a different location.
As night fell, the situation quickly deteriorated. Witnesses described sudden power outages, followed by tear gas and police crackdowns. Eyewitness accounts spoke of intense violence, with one person reporting holding her bloodied husband after a gunshot wound. While authorities denied using live ammunition, hospital records and medical staff suggested otherwise.
By the night’s end, at least five people had died, and police arrested approximately 500 protesters. Bushra Bibi mysteriously disappeared from the scene, with videos suggesting she switched cars and left. Her sudden exit sparked mixed reactions among supporters, with some feeling abandoned while others defended her.
Political analysts offer different interpretations of Bibi’s role. Some, like Imtiaz Gul, believe she is simply keeping the party active during Khan’s absence. Others, such as Defence Minister Khawaja Asif, accused her of political opportunism. Asma Faiz, a political science professor, suggested that party leadership may have underestimated Bibi’s potential influence.
Despite the mixed opinions, many PTI supporters remain deeply loyal to Bibi, seeing her as a crucial connection to Imran Khan. One supporter, Asim Ali, expressed complete trust in her, stating, “She is the one who truly wants to get him out.”
Khan himself has previously downplayed any independent political ambitions for his wife, stating that she merely conveys his messages. However, insiders have long suggested that Bibi has been influential behind the scenes, advising Khan on political appointments and key decisions.
The protest and its aftermath underscore the deep political divisions in Pakistan and the ongoing challenge posed by Khan’s continued resistance from prison. Bushra Bibi’s unexpected emergence as a potential political figure adds another layer of complexity to an already volatile political landscape.
