Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) is facing renewed internal concerns over its organisational strength in Punjab after a relatively modest turnout at the party’s August 5 protest in Lahore.

Several PTI leaders have reportedly questioned the provincial chapter’s ability to mobilise supporters, despite the party maintaining that its support base remains strong. According to party sources, Rawalpindi recorded the strongest mobilisation, with two rallies held in different parts of the city. Sargodha, Khushab, and Sahiwal also reported comparatively respectable turnouts.

The situation was more difficult in several other districts, where police action disrupted planned protests. PTI workers in Faisalabad were reportedly prevented from leaving their office, while activities in Layyah were also affected by a crackdown.

Party sources said arrests and detentions were reported across Punjab, including Rawalpindi, Chakwal, Sargodha, Talagang, Khushab, Layyah, Lodhran, Rahim Yar Khan, and Mianwali. Around 28 workers were reportedly detained under the Maintenance of Public Order (MPO) Ordinance in Khushab.

One PTI leader argued that Lahore’s poor mobilisation reflected organisational shortcomings rather than declining public support. Another estimated that around 1,500 people attended the Lahore rally, saying the turnout was significant given concerns over possible police action.

The party’s secretary general has reportedly sought a report on the Lahore protest as PTI reviews its performance following nationwide demonstrations marking three years of Imran Khan’s incarceration.