LAHORE: Following a remark made by Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) senior leader Rana Sanaullah on the subject, Barrister Gohar Ali Khan, the chairman of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), denied getting any formal invitation from the government for reconciliation talks.
Sanaullah had made Imran Khan an offer of reconciliation on a talk show the day before, implying that concerted efforts may assist the country overcome its many problems, such as its political and economic woes.
He warned that rising political tensions could further destabilize the already unstable economy of the nation and urged Khan to initiate talks.
Barrister Gohar denied rumors of continuing covert talks when addressing the media outside Rawalpindi’s Adiala Jail, stating that PTI has not been contacted for any negotiations. He stated that the party would publicly recognize receiving a legitimate invitation.
He emphasized that Imran Khan, who is currently behind bars, has acknowledged that he has not received any communication for discussion. Gohar stated that his party is open to discussion but not in a covert way, rejecting the idea of having private meetings with the administration.
Speaking about the recent by-elections that took place in 21 constituencies for national and provincial assemblies, Gohar criticized the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) for not holding free and fair elections, especially in Punjab.
He claimed that the results were prearranged and that ballot boxes were filled before the election. He declared that the PTI would oppose the by-election manipulation with nonviolent demonstrations on Friday.
Gohar criticized the proceedings of the recent hearing in the criminal case against Imran Khan, pointing up that although the prosecution called 21 witnesses during a 14-hour hearing, Khan’s attorneys were not allowed to submit any evidence.
He claimed that Bushra Bibi, Khan’s wife, was singled out to put pressure on PTI founder Imran Khan and had nothing to do with the Toshakhana issue.
