Photo credit: www.bbc.com
In Pakistan, widespread protests targeting KFC outlets have resulted in multiple arrests following a tragic incident that claimed the life of a worker. The unrest stems from public anger over the ongoing conflict in Gaza, with demonstrators advocating for a boycott of the fast-food chain, which they view as emblematic of U.S. support for Israel.
Confirmed reports detail at least 11 incidents of protests in major urban centers, including Lahore, Karachi, and Islamabad. Social media footage depicts crowds armed with iron rods entering KFC locations, making threats to set the stores ablaze. In Karachi, two branches were indeed set on fire amid the chaos.
During these protests, a video captured a protester asserting that funds generated from the business contribute to violence, stating, “They are buying bullets with the money you make.”
According to police, the fatal shooting of 45-year-old Asif Nawaz, a KFC employee in Sheikhupura, occurred amid the protests on April 14. A police officer confirmed that Nawaz was struck in the shoulder by a bullet fired from over 100 feet away. Although such wounds are typically not fatal, the bullet deviated toward his chest, resulting in his death. Authorities are currently pursuing the perpetrator, with approximately 40 arrests made thus far.
Sheikhupura Regional Police Officer Athar Ismail indicated that there is no evidence suggesting Nawaz was specifically targeted, raising the possibility that the incident was accidental.
Responses to the Gaza conflict have ignited reactions from various influential figures within Pakistan. The Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP), an Islamist political party, has organized protests against Israel and the U.S. but denies involvement in the violent actions against KFC.
Notably, Mufti Taqi Usmani, a leading Sunni scholar, has called for a boycott of products associated with the conflict. However, both Usmani and TLP representatives have urged peaceful protests devoid of violence. Usmani emphasized at the National Palestine Conference the need for non-violent resistance, stating that Islam does not condone harm to others and that protests should remain peaceful.
TLP spokesman Rehan Mohsin Khan reiterated that while they support a boycott of Israeli goods, they have not incited protests against KFC specifically.
The recent violence against Western brands is part of a broader pattern seen in Pakistan and other Muslim nations since the escalation of the Israel-Gaza hostilities. Companies like McDonald’s and Starbucks have faced public backlash and calls for boycotts. McDonald’s notably decided to repurchase its Israeli outlets last year in response to declining sales linked to perceived support for Israel. Meanwhile, Starbucks has addressed misconceptions regarding its stance on the conflict following protests connected to the Israel-Gaza situation.
As of now, KFC and its parent company, Yum Brands, have not issued a statement regarding the recent events or their implications.
Source
www.bbc.com