PTI won’t be banned, Imran Khan to announce future strategy soon: Gohar
"Imran Khan has always advocated for peace, and these tragic events are part of the negative propaganda aimed at sowing division," Gohar added.
ISLAMABAD: Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Chairman Barrister Gohar has firmly stated that the party will not face a ban, despite the ongoing tensions surrounding the political party’s protests and clashes with security forces. Addressing the media after meeting PTI founder Imran Khan outside Adiala Jail, Barrister Gohar condemned the violence during the recent protests but reassured the public that Imran Khan would soon announce the party’s next course of action.
Gohar clarified that Imran Khan had not been informed about the controversial incident on November 26, when gunfire erupted during a PTI-led protest. He stressed that PTI remains committed to peaceful political engagement, condemning the violence from any side. “From whichever side the bullet was fired, we condemn it. We are a peaceful party, and our workers are enduring tough circumstances,” he said, adding that Imran Khan would provide further direction in due course.
Regarding rumors about Imran Khan’s health, Barrister Gohar firmly rejected the reports suggesting that his condition was deteriorating. “Alhamdulillah, he is completely fine and healthy,” he asserted. Gohar explained that he had met Imran Khan in jail and briefed him on the ongoing protests and critical issues following the final call for action made on November 24.
The rumors about Imran Khan’s life being in danger inside jail were recently fueled by PTI leader and former Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly, Qasim Khan Suri, who alleged that Imran Khan had been subjected to mental distress and possibly poisoned in his cell. However, Barrister Gohar dismissed these claims, reiterating that Imran Khan was in good health.
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The controversy surrounding the November 26 protests escalated after violent clashes between PTI supporters and the police. These protests, triggered by Imran Khan’s call for a march to Islamabad, led to conflicting reports about casualties. PTI officials claimed several of their workers were killed in the confrontations, while police officials in Islamabad and Rawalpindi countered these claims, stating that PTI protesters had attacked law enforcement officers with firearms, sticks, and batons, injuring over 170 officers.
Barrister Gohar expressed sorrow over the loss of life, including both PTI workers and law enforcement officers. He revealed that Imran Khan had expressed deep regret over the fatalities and injuries sustained by both his supporters and security personnel. “Imran Khan has always advocated for peace, and these tragic events are part of the negative propaganda aimed at sowing division,” Gohar added.
Addressing the ongoing discussions about the violence at D-Chowk and Sang Jani, Gohar questioned whether such incidents of violence should be tolerated. He drew historical parallels to previous instances of political unrest, asking, “Would it have been acceptable if bullets had been fired in Sang Jani?” He called for the formation of a commission to investigate the matter, similar to the one set up for the Model Town tragedy.
Imran Khan, according to Barrister Gohar, has directed that a requisition be submitted to convene a session of the National Assembly to discuss the situation. The PTI leadership continues to push for an impartial investigation into the violence surrounding the November protests.
