ISLAMABAD (PEN) : Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan has refuted rumors suggesting that his party reached a deal with the establishment, clarifying that the only development was the restoration of contacts prior to November 24. Gohar emphasized that no negotiations had taken place and labeled claims of a deal as “baseless.”
Clarification on Contacts with Establishment
In an exclusive statement to Geo News, Gohar Khan stressed that the PTI had merely re-established contact with the establishment and denied any substantial negotiations. “The final discussions with the establishment have not even started, and any talk of a deal is completely disconnected from reality,” Gohar explained.
He further stated that there had been no agreement or deal on the table. “It is important to set the record straight — the talk of a deal is just a baseless rumor,” he added.
Condemnation of Terrorism and Political Statements
Gohar also addressed recent statements from government officials, particularly those made by Minister Talal Chaudhry, regarding the Taliban and terrorism. Gohar criticized Talal for what he termed as an “irresponsible” comment about the Taliban’s activities. “Talal’s statement about the return of the Taliban was contrary to facts,” Gohar remarked, highlighting the ongoing threat of terrorism in Pakistan.
The PTI chairman stressed that Pakistan was grappling with significant security challenges and that now was the time to focus on combating terrorism rather than engaging in divisive political statements. “We strongly condemn terrorism in all its forms and call for collective efforts to tackle this menace,” Gohar reiterated.
Support for Balochistan National Party’s Long March
Separately, PTI Information Secretary Waqas Akram announced the party’s support for the Balochistan National Party Mengal’s (BNP-M) long march. This march was organized in response to the detention of leaders from the Baloch Yakjehti Committee (BYC). PTI’s endorsement signals solidarity with the BNP-M’s demand for the establishment of a truth and reconciliation commission to address extra-constitutional actions.
“The people of Balochistan have long been demanding their rightful human, economic, and political rights,” Akram said. He further condemned the enforced disappearances and the torture of unarmed protesters in the region, calling for accountability in such cases.
PTI’s Commitment to National Unity
Akram reaffirmed PTI’s commitment to Pakistan’s solidarity and integrity. He emphasized that the party stood firm against any denial of basic human rights, referencing the tragic events in Balochistan, including the recent attack on the Jaffar Express. PTI has continuously called for an end to extrajudicial actions and demanded that those responsible be held accountable.
“The PTI remains the largest political party in Pakistan, dedicated to the nation’s unity and the protection of constitutional rights across the country,” Akram concluded.