Clashes have erupted across Pakistan as protesters demand a boycott of KFC, leading to one fatality and dozens of arrests amid escalating tensions related to the war in Gaza. The unrest has seen multiple attacks on franchise locations deemed as symbols of U.S.-Israeli influence.
One Dead in Pakistan Protests Against KFC Amid Gaza Conflict
One Dead in Pakistan Protests Against KFC Amid Gaza Conflict
Protests targeting KFC branches in Pakistan escalate after tensions over the Gaza conflict, resulting in one death and numerous arrests.
Police have reported that tensions flared nationwide as demonstrators took to the streets, blaming foreign entities for the ongoing conflict in Gaza. A tragic incident occurred in Sheikhupura on April 14, where 45-year-old KFC employee Asif Nawaz was fatally shot during a protest. Investigators unraveling the incident confirmed that Nawaz was targeted by a stray bullet that struck his shoulder and traveled to his chest, despite initial assumptions of a non-fatal shot.
Authorities revealed that in the past week alone, there have been over 20 attacks on KFC outlets, prompting a heavy police presence at various locations to prevent further escalation. Interior Minister Talal Chaudhry condemned the violence but urged the public not to forget that the majority of KFC employees are Pakistani nationals, asserting that profits remain within the country.
As protests persist, various groups, including nationalist and religious factions, have called for a boycott of foreign brands, attributing financial support to the conflict. Notably, Mufti Taqi Usmani, a respected Sunni scholar, emphasized the importance of peaceful protests, cautioning against the shedding of blood or hurting others during demonstrations.
KFC and its parent company, Yum Brands, have not yet issued a statement regarding the unfolding events, as protests akin to these have sparked globally in response to the Gaza conflict.
Authorities revealed that in the past week alone, there have been over 20 attacks on KFC outlets, prompting a heavy police presence at various locations to prevent further escalation. Interior Minister Talal Chaudhry condemned the violence but urged the public not to forget that the majority of KFC employees are Pakistani nationals, asserting that profits remain within the country.
As protests persist, various groups, including nationalist and religious factions, have called for a boycott of foreign brands, attributing financial support to the conflict. Notably, Mufti Taqi Usmani, a respected Sunni scholar, emphasized the importance of peaceful protests, cautioning against the shedding of blood or hurting others during demonstrations.
KFC and its parent company, Yum Brands, have not yet issued a statement regarding the unfolding events, as protests akin to these have sparked globally in response to the Gaza conflict.
