05-01-2025 12:00:00 AM
Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan revealed that his party had engaged in "backdoor contacts" with Pakistan's military before the November 2024 protests but clarified that these talks have now been severed. Gohar confirmed that all ongoing discussions are solely with the government, Dawn reported.
According to Gohar, the PTI leadership initially pursued discussions with the military, acknowledging the army's significant role in decision-making in the country. These contacts were heading in a "positive direction" until the arrest of PTI founder Imran Khan in a new case.
Gohar detailed that Khan had been granted bail in the Toshakhana case, which involved the controversial purchase of a Bulgari jewellery set, but was soon rearrested on charges related to the September 2024 protest, leading to the collapse of talks with the military.
"Now, the PTI is not holding backdoor talks with the establishment," Gohar said. However, he emphasised that the possibility of future talks with the military has not been completely closed, leaving room for potential negotiations later. This statement reflects PTI's focus on engaging in dialogue exclusively with the government at this juncture.
The PTI chairman dismissed rumours about an alleged offer to move Imran Khan from Adiala Jail to his residence in Banigala. Gohar reiterated that Khan views his detention as illegal. "There is no point in considering such an offer," he said, aligning with Khan's position on the matter.