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The Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI) finally clarified its stance on talks with the military establishment, designating Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur, Omar Ayub, and Shibli Faraz for the dialogue. This decision, confirmed by PTI founding chairman Imran Khan during a media interaction at Adiala Jail, follows months of speculation and confusion.
Imran Khan emphasized that only these three leaders were authorized to engage in discussions with the military establishment. He further addressed concerns about his previous comments regarding state institutions, asserting that he never intended disrespect and highlighting the importance of upholding fundamental rights enshrined in the Constitution.
Regarding the ongoing uncertainty surrounding the nomination of the chairman of the Public Accounts Committee (PAC). Imran Khan expressed hope that the matter would be resolved soon. He mentioned Sher Afzal Khan Marwat’s initial nomination for the position but noted the need for further consultations, lamenting the limited time provided by jail authorities for such deliberations.
Imran Khan also endorsed the statement made by the KP chief minister regarding unfulfilled commitments from the federal government, supporting the provincial government’s demand for its due share.
Outside Adiala Jail, PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan denied any backchannel dialogues with the establishment, emphasizing that the PTI was not engaged in talks with any entity. However, he mentioned that Imran Khan might make an announcement regarding talks in the future.
Meanwhile, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi stated his unawareness of any talks or imminent deals between the PTI and the military establishment in Islamabad. He also addressed inquiries about the removal of names from the Exit Control List (ECL). Stating that such actions follow standard procedures.
In court proceedings, Accountability Court judge Nasir Javed Rana recorded statements from witnesses in the £190m corruption reference, while the Islamabad High Court adjourned the bail petitions hearing of Imran Khan and Bushra Bibi due to the absence of the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) special prosecutor.
Haseeb Abdullah
