PTI Chairman Gohar Ali Khan Denies Talks with Interior Minister, Rejects Claims of Postponing Protest
Islamabad:Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan has clarified that he only had one contact with Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, rejecting claims of any formal negotiations regarding the postponement of the party’s planned protest. In a private TV interview, Barrister Gohar emphasized that the interactions could not be considered as negotiations, and no discussions were held with the Interior Minister about delaying the protest.
Gohar Ali Khan further clarified that there was no commitment made to receive a final response from the Interior Minister by 6 pm, as reported earlier. He also stated that no proposal to postpone the protest was made by the government, and that the decision to call off or delay the protest lies solely with PTI’s founder and former Prime Minister, Imran Khan.
On the issue of the Islamabad High Court’s recent ruling, Gohar explained that PTI was not heard during the court proceedings, and he maintained that the court’s order was not final. He also noted that no discussions had taken place within the PTI’s political committee regarding postponing the protest, emphasizing that every action taken so far had been in accordance with Imran Khan’s directives.
Regarding the current legal situation of Imran Khan, Gohar Ali Khan pointed out that PTI’s leader is out on bail in all cases, and there has been no deal or negotiation regarding his release. He asserted that while talks might be held in the future, the current discussions have not included any demands for Imran Khan’s release.
Addressing the widespread disruptions caused by the protest preparations, including the closure of eight motorways, transport stoppages, and hostel evacuations, Gohar remarked that if these were the outcomes the government aimed to achieve, then it had already done so. He criticized the government for targeting PTI and said that the people have a right to peacefully protest.
Regarding the controversy surrounding former First Lady Bushra Bibi, Gohar Ali Khan reiterated that she had no involvement with the Toshakhana (gift depository) and had not received any funds. He suggested that the focus on Bushra Bibi was part of a broader effort to undermine Imran Khan, claiming that the aim was to break his resolve.
Gohar also addressed the allegations about Bushra Bibi’s recent statement regarding Saudi Arabia, stating that her comments had been misrepresented by the government. He clarified that Bushra Bibi never mentioned receiving a phone call from Saudi Arabia and emphasized that PTI, and Imran Khan in particular, maintain strong and respectful relations with the Kingdom.
Regarding Bushra Bibi’s participation in the protest, Gohar stated that she would not be attending, as her health was not in good condition.
