Pakistan bans hard-line Islamist party after recent deadly clashes with police

In a decisive move, Pakistan’s federal Cabinet has officially banned the radical Islamist party Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP) following a series of violent protests that resulted in significant casualties. The decision, enacted under the country’s anti-terrorism law, comes after clashes between TLP supporters and law enforcement on the outskirts of Lahore left at least one police officer and four civilians dead, with over 100 officers and dozens of protesters injured. The unrest erupted as TLP members attempted to march to Islamabad to hold a pro-Palestinian rally. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s office condemned the group for its involvement in extremist activities, marking the second time in recent years that TLP has faced prohibition. The party was previously banned in 2020 after violent protests over caricatures of Islam’s Prophet Muhammad in France, though the ban was lifted in 2021 following negotiations with the government. Authorities are now searching for TLP leader Saad Rizvi, who has gone into hiding since the clashes began on October 13. The Punjab government has already shut down TLP offices, signaling a firm stance against the group’s disruptive actions. Known for its aggressive rallies, TLP gained prominence in Pakistan’s 2018 election by advocating for the strict enforcement of blasphemy laws.