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Barrister Gohar denies any ‘deal’ between Imran Khan and establishment


PTI

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan on Thursday categorically denied reports of any behind-the-scenes deal involving the party’s incarcerated founder Imran Khan, insisting political matters should only be resolved through dialogue.

“Absolutely no deal of any kind has been made with the PTI founder,” Gohar asserted during a press interaction, addressing swirling speculation about potential negotiations. He revealed that even the imprisoned leader’s children had confirmed no such arrangement existed.

Referring to the family’s awareness of political developments, the PTI chairman stated: “Qasim Khan and Suleman Khan are in contact with their father and are not unaware of the situation.” His remarks appeared to counter narratives suggesting the party’s leadership was operating without coordination with its founder.

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Reiterating PTI’s official stance, Gohar maintained that “political issues must be resolved through dialogue,” though he did not specify whether any formal talks were currently underway. The statement comes amid ongoing legal battles faced by PTI leaders and workers following the May 9 events of 2023.

Aleema Khan rubbishes news about interest in meeting

Imran Khan’s sister Aleema Khan vehemently denied reports of backchannel negotiations with the government, while launching a critique of the 26th Constitutional Amendment that she claimed was specifically designed to deny her brother justice.

When questioned by reporters outside the Islamabad High Court about whether the PTI founder had accepted any offer for talks with authorities, a visibly perplexed Aleema responded: “I don’t understand where this news is coming from. When we asked him this same question, he clearly said ‘no such thing exists’.”

The PTI leader’s sister dismissed any possibility of dialogue with PML-N, stating: “What would we even discuss with these thieves who stole our entire mandate?” She particularly criticised Punjab’s administration, noting “All the oppression and cases are happening in Punjab, where he’s imprisoned.”

Aleema reserved her harshest criticism for the 26th Amendment, which she said had “destroyed the rule of law in Pakistan.” In an impassioned critique, she explained: “Judges previously showed consideration – they’d listen to lawyers and adjourn if needed. Now they schedule multiple cases in a single day, thinking we’ll get frustrated and go home.”

The amendment, she claimed, was specifically engineered to block her brother’s access to justice, adding: “The public is demanding we return to assemblies immediately to repeal this amendment.”

Addressing recent speculation about secret talks, Aleema revealed she was initially surprised by reports that PM Shehbaz Sharif had contacted PTI’s chairman, wondering if some communication had occurred with the jailed leader. “Later it was clarified he spoke only to Barrister Gohar,” she said, firmly stating: “Imran Khan remains PTI’s only chairman. All party decisions flow from him alone.”

She clarified Barrister Gohar Ali Khan’s role, stating he was merely appointed as a messenger by the founder, in remarks that appeared to subtly redefine the current chairman’s authority within the party hierarchy.

Earlier, The News International quoting sources reported that PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan met Imran Khan at Adiala Jail on Monday, where the former premier gave his nod to initiate talks. However, Khan stressed that discussions should take place away from media spotlight to ensure productive outcomes.

PTI leadership was now being expected to formally approach the government to begin the process. Insiders said earlier efforts at negotiation had failed due to media pressure, which is why this round is being planned behind closed doors.

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Speaking to The News, Barrister Gohar confirmed conveying the prime minister’s offer to Khan but declined to share details. “I can’t divulge what was discussed between us,” he said.

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