ISLAMABAD: Reacting to a bipartisan bill introduced in the US House of Representatives seeking sanctions against Pakistan, PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan clarified on Monday that his party has no connection to the legislation.
The bill, titled ‘Pakistan Democracy Act,’ was introduced by two US lawmakers last month, aiming to impose sanctions on Pakistani state officials over alleged human rights violations, including the persecution of former Prime Minister Imran Khan. It seeks to invoke the US Global Magnitsky Human Rights Accountability Act, which would deny visas and entry to individuals accused of human rights violations.
Gohar emphasized that although numerous legislations and resolutions are passed in the US Congress, the PTI has no involvement with this specific bill. He also confirmed that his party is not in contact with the US delegation currently visiting Pakistan.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs responded to the bill, brushing it aside as an initiative of a single legislator, stating that the bill’s timing and context do not align with the positive dynamics of Pakistan-US relations. The Foreign Office reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to constitutionalism, rule of law, and human rights.
Regarding PTI’s political future, Gohar stated that the party would finalize its strategy after forming an alliance with opposition parties. He revealed that Maulana Fazlur Rehman of Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F) will announce his decision on April 15, and the opposition will decide on the terms of reference for an anti-government movement post-Eid ul Fitr.
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Gohar also addressed internal rifts within the PTI leadership, asserting that it remains a democratic party where members are free to express their opinions but should resolve party matters internally.
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