LAHORE – Security officials have issued an alert for terror attacks on theOpposition leaders as they prepare for a major anti-government showdown,under the banner of Pakistan Democratic Alliance, in Punjab capital thisSunday.

Reports in local media cited security officials as fearing the PDM leadersincluding Maryam Nawaz – the vice-president of PML-N – may be targeted atthe Minar-i-Pakistan, where a massive gathering is set to take place on Dec13th.

Police have informed the PDM leadership about possible terror threats,asking the top politicians to cancel their power show in Lahore to avoidany untoward situation.

As per instructions, the political leaders have been asked to travel bybulletproof vehicles for the rally, besides avoiding use of loud speakers.

Earlier today, PDM head Moulana Fazal ur Rehman announced that they willhold Lahore jalsa at any cost. He also hinted at announcing a long march tothe capital Islamabad in the coming days.

“A meeting of steering committee will be held on Wednesday when decisionabout schedule of long march, shutter down strike and rallies will betaken,” said Fazl. He was addressing a press conference alongwith flankedby PML-N leader Maryam Nawaz, PPP chief Bilawal Bhutto Zardari and othersafter hours-long meeting in Islamabad.

Rehman asked all parliamentarians of member parties to submit theirresignations to their party heads by December 31.