PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar Urges Politicians Not to Politicize Martyrs
RAWALPINDI: Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan has urged political leaders to refrain from bringing the country’s martyrs into political debates, saying the sacrifices of fallen security personnel should remain above politics.
Speaking to the media near Adiala Jail, Gohar said he disagreed with recent remarks by Maulana Fazlur Rehman regarding the martyrs and advised politicians to exercise caution in their choice of words during public speeches.
He described terrorism as a national menace and paid tribute to Pakistan’s security forces, saying the country’s martyrs are national heroes whose sacrifices can never be compensated.
Barrister Gohar reiterated PTI’s stance against terrorism, stating that the party has consistently maintained a clear position on the issue. He also alleged that India and the banned Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) are closely linked, claiming the entire nation stands united against terrorism and that Pakistan’s sovereignty cannot be compromised.
Referring to PTI founder Imran Khan, Gohar said the former prime minister’s sisters had become frustrated with the legal system, which is why they had taken to public protest. He said they have the right to launch a peaceful movement in support of their brother if they choose to do so.
He added that opposition leader Mahmood Khan Achakzai had announced a protest movement beginning on August 5, while PTI’s participation would be decided by the party’s parliamentary and political committees.
Gohar also expressed concern over the legal case involving Aleema Khan, saying he hoped no undue haste would be shown in deciding the matter, as it could create a negative public perception.
Commenting on Azad Jammu and Kashmir, he said PTI continues to boycott the upcoming elections but may review its decision if the political situation improves. He emphasized that the party supports peaceful political solutions and opposes violence.
On relations with Afghanistan, Gohar said Pakistan has supported Afghanistan for decades but expects Kabul to prevent anti-Pakistan militant groups from operating from its territory. He added that it is Afghanistan’s responsibility to determine the future direction of bilateral relations.
Meanwhile, the scheduled meeting between PTI founder Imran Khan and party leaders at Adiala Jail did not take place after visiting hours expired without permission being granted to party representatives or family members.
Separately, PTI Secretary General Barrister Salman Akram Raja said terrorism has increased significantly in recent months, particularly in Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and stressed that combating the threat requires a united national effort.
He said safeguarding Pakistan’s borders is the responsibility of federal institutions and called on relevant authorities to ensure that militants are prevented from crossing into the country.
