Nawaz Sharif starts 'caravan' to Lahore, thousands attend rally in support

Pakistan will celebrate 70 years of independence from British rule on August 14

Thousands of people attended a rally and procession in support of former Pakistani prime minister Nawaz Sharif on Wednesday as he embarks on a show of political power following a Supreme Court decision to disqualify him from office over undeclared assets.

Sharif launched the so-called "caravan" procession from Islamabad to his eastern hometown of Lahore, despite the concerns of advisers about security.

After being driven 12 hours surrounded by supporters showering his vehicle with rose petals from capital Islamabad to the neighbouring city of Rawalpindi, normally a 30 minute drive, Sharif addressed the crowd shortly after midnight.

"One court has given its decision,