ISLAMABAD (MNN); Amid rising political tensions sparked by a forceful press conference from the Pakistan Army spokesperson targeting former prime minister Imran Khan, the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) parliamentary party stated on Monday that sidelining the party founder would only undermine the country’s political system.
Following a joint parliamentary party meeting in Islamabad, PTI lawmakers discussed the latest political situation, the ongoing restrictions on meeting Imran Khan, and recent developments involving the former ruling party.
The meeting was attended by PTI lawmakers from both houses, including party chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan, Barrister Ali Zafar, Ali Muhammad Khan and MNA Shahid Kattak. PkMAP chief Mehmood Khan Achakzai, PTI’s nominee for leader of the opposition in the National Assembly, was also present.
Speaking to Dawn, Barrister Syed Ali Zafar said the participants reviewed the current political landscape, including what he called an unannounced ban on meetings with Imran Khan. He said the participants strongly disagreed with the government and military’s narrative that Imran posed a security risk.
He stated: “Imran Khan is crucial for Pakistan’s stability, democracy, and future. His continued exclusion weakens the political system and further deepens national uncertainty.” He added that PTI lawmakers were fully united on this matter.
He said the party would use all constitutional, legal and parliamentary avenues to secure Imran Khan’s release, emphasising that the parliamentary party stood firmly by its founder.
Barrister Zafar said PTI lawmakers demanded unrestricted access to meet Imran Khan in jail, deeming the denial of such access unconstitutional, undemocratic and unacceptable.
He also raised concerns about the confinement of Bushra Bibi, saying her solitary isolation amounted to severe injustice. He said subjecting a non-political woman to mental anguish was a violation of basic human rights and contrary to cultural norms.
Zafar affirmed that the PTI parliamentary party would remain the strongest pillar of the ongoing movement, vowing to continue the democratic and constitutional struggle for justice, political freedom and restoration of the people’s mandate.
Political tensions have intensified nationwide, particularly after ISPR Director General Lt Gen Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry accused Imran Khan of promoting an anti-army narrative. His remarks about Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi also prompted the PTI to demand an apology.
Meanwhile, Information Minister Attaullah Tarar has ruled out talks with the PTI, saying any future dialogue would take place only in parliament and without Imran Khan.
Last week, Barrister Gohar had expressed willingness to ease tensions in an attempt to break the political deadlock.
