TLDR:
Imran authorises PTI dialogue with establishment
November 24 protest centres on ideological rights
Khan urges peaceful mobilisation of supporters
ISLAMABAD (The Thursday Times) — Imran Khan, founder of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), has given Barrister Gohar and Ali Amin Gandapur the green light to initiate talks with Pakistan’s establishment, marking a strategic step as PTI prepares for a significant mobilisation on November 24. Imran’s sister, Aleema Khan, conveyed his directives outside Adiala Jail, emphasising the importance of peaceful protest to defend the party’s ideological foundations. The former Prime Minister has underscored the significance of November 24 as a rallying day to reclaim the right to vote and protest in solidarity.
A call to peaceful protest and ideological mobilisation
Aleema Khan recounted Imran’s determination for a peaceful rally, highlighting November 24 as a day of ideological significance. The PTI leader urged his followers to draw inspiration from past movements, such as the February 8 mobilisation. His message was clear: uphold PTI’s commitment to ideology and gather without disrupting peace, demonstrating solidarity for democratic rights in the face of adversity.
Strategic demands and PTI’s unwavering stance
During her address, Aleema shared Imran’s three core demands, which are central to any discussions with the establishment. A primary focus remains the release of detained PTI members, including prominent figures such as Yasmin Rashid, Shah Mahmood Qureshi, and Umar Cheema. While open to negotiations, Imran maintains a firm stance on PTI’s ideological principles, which he asserts have been consistently undermined since the 1970s’ shift from party-based elections.
The significance of November 24 and PTI’s legacy
Imran’s remarks touched upon the historical backdrop of PTI’s formation as an ideological party and the deviation from this path in recent years. According to Aleema, PTI’s rally on November 24 aims to underscore the party’s commitment to Pakistan’s democratic processes, reminiscent of the ideological purity witnessed during the 1970s elections. If granted bail in the Toshakhana case, Imran intends to personally lead the demonstration, amplifying the movement’s impact.
Engaging with the establishment amidst political uncertainties
With Gandapur and Barrister Gohar authorised to approach the establishment, PTI aims to establish a dialogue channel to discuss these demands. Aleema stressed that PTI is a political party open to dialogue, with its principles firmly centred on justice and constitutional adherence. The talks underscore PTI’s commitment to peaceful engagement and reflect its strategic intent to secure assurances for PTI members’ release and fair treatment.
A united call to Islamabad and Rawalpindi residents
Aleema appealed to the residents of Islamabad and Rawalpindi, urging them to join the November 24 rally and support PTI’s peaceful movement for democratic integrity. PTI’s commitment to peaceful protest is emblematic of its ideological dedication, even as it engages with the establishment. She added that if talks are successful, the gathering could potentially transform into a celebratory moment for PTI supporters across the nation.