PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan stated on Wednesday that his party is currently not engaged in any substantive negotiations with the government, placing the onus of moving the dialogue forward on those who hold real authority. Speaking to reporters in Peshawar, Gohar reiterated that the PTI has authorised Mahmood Achakzai to represent the party in dialogue efforts, and that Achakzai's handshake with the prime minister was a sign of political maturity, not weakness.
Political Disputes Must Be Resolved Politically
Gohar emphasised that political disputes should be resolved through political means, and that every public office-holder has a responsibility to seek solutions to national issues. He dismissed any notion that the PTI's authorisation of Achakzai indicated weakness, stating, "If anyone considers this our weakness, they are mistaken."
PTI's Stance on AJK Elections
Regarding the Azad Jammu and Kashmir elections, Gohar clarified that the PTI has not yet made any decision and will announce its stance within the next two days. He denied reports of a boycott, calling a social media notification about a boycott "completely fake." He described the situation in Kashmir as extremely serious, referring to the region as Pakistan's "jugular vein." The PTI is closely monitoring developments and will make important decisions regarding Kashmir in the coming days.
Call for Peaceful Protests in Kashmir
Gohar urged that political expediency be given a chance and called on protesters in Kashmir to keep their demonstrations peaceful. He also appealed to the government to avoid bloodshed, highlighting the need for restraint.
No Replacement of K-P CM Afridi
Commenting on reports about the possible replacement of Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi, Gohar stated that Afridi is not being replaced and that there is currently no candidate in the provincial assembly who could take over. He said disgruntled PTI lawmakers have been invited to Islamabad for a meeting later in the day to address their concerns, and asserted that there is no forward bloc in the party, which remains united.
Concerns Over Imran Khan's Imprisonment
Gohar expressed serious concern over restrictions on meetings and medical facilities for PTI founder Imran Khan. He claimed that despite 250 days having passed, no one has been allowed to meet Khan in jail, and demanded that the meeting schedule be restored immediately. He also called for Khan to receive medical treatment at a hospital chosen by his family.
K-P Budget and NFC Award
On the Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa budget, Gohar said the provincial government presented an excellent budget but was compelled to present a deficit budget due to financial constraints. He accused the federal government of failing to provide K-P with its due share under the National Finance Commission (NFC) Award. He also criticised the imposition of taxes in the former Fata and Pata regions, calling the decision inappropriate.
