Supporters of imprisoned former Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan launched a march toward Islamabad on Sunday after government efforts to prevent the protest proved unsuccessful, according to leaders of his Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party.
The march originated in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Khan's stronghold province in north-west Pakistan. The demonstrators are demanding Khan's release from jail.
Pakistani authorities have stated the marchers will not be allowed to reach the capital. Islamabad has been placed under lockdown in response to the planned demonstration.
Khan, who served as prime minister until 2022, has faced multiple legal challenges and remains imprisoned. The PTI party has mobilized supporters to press for his release through the march.
The Guardian reported that government attempts to halt the protest had failed before the march began on Sunday.