In Pakistan clashes, Khan showed he commands huge crowds. What’s driving them?

Imran Khan’s detention last week showed how swiftly his ardent supporters can mobilize.

His supporters burned vehicles and buildings and attacked police and military facilities within hours of his incarceration. Khan’s supporters have become a powerful force, confronting the government and military and realizing that relentless pressure can change the political balance.

They are and what drives them:

Imran Khan’s appeal?

Khan has starred in Pakistan for decades. He won the 1992 cricket World Cup for South Asia. Before entering politics, tens of millions revered him.

He created Pakistan’s first cancer hospital, named after his mother, and gave. His anti-corruption message resonates in a corrupt nation. He claims he is the only leader who can challenge the West, particularly the US. Pakistanis deeply hate foreign interference in domestic affairs, therefore this notion is popular.

HIS SUPPORTERS?

Khan has cross-class appeal. Young, educated Pakistanis without ties to the Sharifs or Bhuttos are loyalists. He addresses the diaspora and rural illiterates without internet or social media.

Khan’s challenge to elites and the current quo unites these factions. He encourages disenfranchisement. He draws thousands to open-air gatherings.

His party’s Twitter domination is due to his 20s and 30s support. Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa are his strongholds.

How is this violence outbreak different?

Khan’s supporters haven’t been deterred by this week’s violent skirmishes with police or the huge arrest of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf workers and leaders. They vow to avenge anyone who crosses their red line, in this case Khan’s arrest.

Since 2007, when then-Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto was slain, this degree of violence has not been experienced. Khan supporters have turned out in thousands despite social media and mobile internet bans.

WHAT NEXT?

The administration, security forces, and courts are struggling this week.

Khan supporters have interrupted daily life in Pakistan. Educational institutions have closed temporarily, consumer spending has dropped as people stay home, industry has stalled, everyday governance has stopped, and mobile networks have disrupted businesses like food delivery and ride-hailing applications.

Khan’s imprisonment and the government’s preoccupation on him have enraged his supporters, who claim they will do anything to save him.