Pakistan - October 2025

On 23 October, Pakistan’s federal cabinet banned Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP) under the Anti-Terrorism Act, citing its ‘violent and terrorist activities.’ This decision followed deadly clashes in several cities during pro-Gaza protests organized by TLP, which resulted in at least 16 deaths, including policemen, and hundreds of injuries. This marks the second time in four years that TLP has faced a ban. The ban prohibits the party from engaging in political activities, including organizing rallies and protests, and prevents TLP from contesting elections until the ban is lifted. The ban is justified as a measure to protect citizens from TLP’s long history of violent protests, which go beyond ordinary political activism. However, governance experts warn that such a ban undermines democratic principles and may fuel extremism by driving its base underground. It remains to be seen whether the TLP will escalate the matter to the Supreme Court, which holds the authority to further dissolve the party. 

Sources: Pakistan Today, NPR, The News, AL Jazeera