Speaking to journalists from Adiala Jail, Imran Khan, the founder of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), reiterated his stance of being open to discussions but firmly ruled out any possibility of striking a ‘deal’ for his release. He emphasized that deals are typically pursued by individuals aiming to flee the country, citing examples like Asif Zardari and Nawaz Sharif.
Imran Khan disclosed that over the past 18 months, he has consistently expressed his readiness for talks, clarifying that these discussions are not to broker a deal. He mentioned the formation of a three-member committee for dialogue, highlighting that no retired general has been appointed for this purpose. However, he specified that dialogue will not be pursued with three political parties: PML-N, PPP, and MQM-P.
Asserting that dialogue is essential with adversaries, Imran Khan stated that PTI’s most formidable adversaries are the ones they are willing to engage with.
He accused the government of attempting to pressure him through fabricated cases but affirmed his resilience against such tactics. Imran Khan cited the Toshakhana case as an example of political victimization.
Imran Khan further criticized the government for prolonging legal proceedings, particularly in the cipher case, while referencing the dismissal of references against Nawaz Sharif and Asif Ali Zardari.
He urged the judges to expedite the hearings of his cases and accused the government of orchestrating ‘drama’ in the fake marriage case.
PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan also weighed in, stating that they had not received any invitation or message for dialogues with the incumbent government. He affirmed that if any such invitation were to be received, it would be made public, and the party firmly rejected the notion of engaging in secret talks with the government.
