Skip to content 
Protest Call Sees No Public Response
Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf’s (PTI) call for a nationwide protest on February 8, 2026, failed to generate any significant public response. Across major cities, life continued as usual with shops open, markets busy, and public transport running. From Haripur to Abbottabad, Barah Bazaar to Mardan, Swabi, Kohat, Dera Ismail Khan, and even Peshawar, citizens largely ignored the call.
In Barah Bazaar, not a single shop closed, while traders in Landi Kotal openly rejected the political drama. The Gadoon Industrial Estate also ignored the PTI protest entirely. Observers noted the absence of shutter-downs or wheel-jams, indicating that slogans and public appeals failed to translate into any meaningful action.
The lack of turnout reflects a growing disconnect between PTI leadership and the general public. Analysts suggest that repeated calls for protests without clear objectives have led to public fatigue and skepticism.
Public Rejection Highlights Political Disconnect
The widespread inaction during PTI’s protest call highlights a clear rejection by ordinary citizens. While the party urged its supporters to participate actively, the public response demonstrated prioritization of daily life and economic activity over political mobilization.
This event also underscores how economic realities, such as reliance on daily wages, affect participation in nationwide strikes. Many argued that calls for shutter-downs unfairly burden ordinary workers while leadership families continue regular routines, further contributing to public disillusionment.
Political commentators suggest that PTI’s failure to mobilize people reflects a broader credibility gap and could affect the party’s influence in upcoming political activities. The failed protest serves as a reminder that political calls must resonate with citizens’ realities and not appear disconnected from their daily challenges.
In conclusion, PTI’s February 8 protest call was largely symbolic, with no tangible impact on daily life. The public’s indifference and rejection indicate that effective political mobilization requires credibility, consistent messaging, and sensitivity to citizens’ socio-economic conditions.
