LAHORE: Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan denied receiving any formal invitation from the government for reconciliation talks, following a statement made by Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) senior leader Rana Sanaullah on the matter.
A day earlier during a talk show, Sanaullah had extended a reconciliation offer to Imran Khan, suggesting that joint efforts could help overcome the nation’s multiple challenges, including economic and political crises.
He urged Khan to engage in dialogue, warning that escalating political tensions could further destabilise the country’s fragile economy.
While speaking to the media outside Rawalpindi’s Adiala Jail, Barrister Gohar asserted that PTI had not been contacted for any negotiation, refuting rumours of ongoing secret discussions. If a genuine invitation were received, the party would publicly acknowledge it, he said.
He highlighted that the incarcerated Imran Khan has also confirmed that he did not receive any message for dialogue. Gohar rejected any notion of holding secret talks with the government, emphasising that his party is open to dialogue but not in a concealed manner.
Commenting on the recent by-elections held in 21 national and provincial assemblies’ constituencies, Gohar criticised the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) for failing to conduct free and transparent elections, particularly in Punjab.
He alleged that ballot boxes were filled before the polling process and that the results were pre-planned. He announced that PTI would stage peaceful protests on Friday against the by-election rigging.
Discussing the recent hearing of the cypher case against Imran Khan, Gohar criticised the process, highlighting that the prosecutor presented 21 witnesses in a 14-hour hearing, but Khan’s lawyers were not given a chance to present evidence.
Regarding the cases against Khan’s wife, Bushra Bibi, he stated that she had no connection with the Toshakhana case and was targeted to pressurise the PTI founder.
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