TLDR:
• Imran Khan is healthy in jail
• PTI confirms 12 workers’ deaths
• Barrister Gohar refutes false claims
RAWALPINDI (The Thursday Times) — Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Chairman Barrister Gohar Khan has strongly refuted false claims about the health of party founder Imran Khan and allegations of hundreds of deaths during recent protests. He clarified that Imran Khan remains healthy in Adiala Jail and has not been relocated.
Imran Khan’s health and protest allegations
Barrister Gohar Khan addressed the media outside Adiala Jail, confirming his meeting with Imran Khan following the PTI’s recent protest activities. Contrary to reports, Imran Khan was found to be in good health, and rumours regarding his transfer or deteriorating condition were baseless. Gohar also addressed claims that hundreds of PTI workers had died in the protests, stating that only 12 deaths had been verified so far. He dismissed exaggerated figures as unfounded and lacking evidence.
Barrister Gohar’s directives for PTI leadership
During his meeting, Imran Khan instructed PTI members to focus on parliamentary engagement. He emphasised the need to raise political concerns through democratic forums such as the National Assembly and Senate. Gohar reiterated that the party’s strategy aligns with these instructions and that future plans will be disclosed by Imran Khan at a later date.
condemnation of violence during protests
Gohar denounced any use of violence during PTI protests, asserting that no bullets should have been fired, regardless of the source. He described such actions as unacceptable and emphasised PTI’s commitment to peaceful demonstrations. Gohar further stated that the exaggerated narratives around specific protest locations, such as D-Chowk and Sangjani, were attempts to distract from the actual issues.
PTI’s stance on democratic principles
The PTI leadership reaffirmed its identity as a democratic and peaceful political organisation. Gohar rejected rumours of a ban on the party and underscored its transparency in handling internal matters. He also highlighted PTI’s status as one of Pakistan’s largest political movements and its global standing as the seventh-largest political organisation.
Addressing organisational challenges
In light of recent challenges, Gohar acknowledged the hardships faced by PTI members, particularly in Punjab. He commended their resilience and assured that the party continues to self-evaluate its strategies. PTI’s peaceful and structured approach to political engagement, according to Gohar, distinguishes it in the national political landscape.