Prime Minister’s Adviser Rana Sanaullah Responds to Pressure on Imran Khan’s Release
Islamabad:Prime Minister’s Adviser on Political Affairs, Rana Sanaullah, has stated that the government will face any pressure from the United States regarding the release of former Prime Minister Imran Khan.
In an exclusive interview with a private TV channel, Rana Sanaullah pointed out that the United States had previously exerted pressure for the release of Dr. Shakil Afridi, but it was unsuccessful. He added that Pakistan has always demanded the release of Dr. Aafia Siddiqui from the U.S.
Sanaullah remarked, “Imran Khan had always said that we are not slaves to the United States, but now, it seems that his release is expected to come through American efforts.”
He emphasized that the solution to any political issue lies in political negotiations, and there are no other options. However, he criticized the leadership of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) for lacking a mandate to negotiate.
Rana Sanaullah further clarified the events surrounding PTI’s 25-26 November protests, stating that PTI leaders were in contact with the government and had agreed to sit for talks. However, Imran Khan insisted on heading to D-Chowk, which he believed would lead to a different outcome, but that did not happen. “It is completely incorrect to say that Bushra Bibi decided to go to D-Chowk; it was Imran Khan’s decision,” he added. He also mentioned that the PTI team in contact with the government had little influence.
In response to a question about the current political situation, Rana Sanaullah said, “This country is as much ours as it is for everyone. We do not want instability again, and we certainly do not want the country to approach default.”
Regarding Maulana Fazlur Rehman’s issue, he indicated that there would be positive developments soon. He also stated that Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) President Nawaz Sharif is fully active and will call for party meetings soon. “A week ago, Khurram Dastgir met with me, and he did not mention that he had not met with Nawaz Sharif.”
Rana Sanaullah acknowledged that the media has been noticing Nawaz Sharif’s absence, but assured that the party leader is actively involved in matters where his presence is necessary.
