May Nine Unrest Government Moves to Add PTI Leaders to ECL
The federal government has taken a significant step during the May nine unrest investigations. It has moved to place senior Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf leaders on the Exit Control List. Officials say the decision will support accountability while probes into violent protests continue.
Authorities acted after reviewing security and legal reports. These reports followed violent demonstrations after former prime minister Imran Khan’s arrest. As a result, the government believes travel limits will ensure cooperation with investigators.
Why authorities proposed travel restrictions
Officials reviewed recommendations from the Punjab Home Department before making the move. Therefore, they approved a list of senior political figures for review. The list reportedly includes Imran Khan, Shah Mahmood Qureshi, and Omar Ayub.
In addition, the government named Fawad Chaudhry, Shibli Faraz, and Ali Amin Gandapur. Shehryar Afridi, Usman Dar, and Shireen Mazari also appear on the list. Others include Zartaj Gul, Musarrat Cheema, Kanwal Shauzab, Sheikh Rashid, and Major Tahir Sadiq.
Sources say authorities are also reviewing Raja Basharat and Wasiq Qayyum Abbasi. The ECL Committee has now forwarded these recommendations for final approval.
Officials state that this action will help prevent delays during legal proceedings.
Damage linked to the May nine unrest
The May nine unrest caused large-scale violence across Pakistan. Protesters attacked Jinnah House in Lahore and GHQ in Rawalpindi. They also targeted Askari Tower and Radio Pakistan Peshawar.
Furthermore, incidents occurred at ISI Faisalabad, FC Fort Chakdara, and Mianwali Air Base. The unrest led to at least eight deaths and hundreds of injuries. Security agencies arrested many party workers and leaders afterward.
Authorities emphasize that the move does not target political beliefs. Instead, it focuses on rule of law and investigation integrity. As a result, officials say the legal process will proceed without interference.
