Imran Khan's Party Clarifies: Jaishankar Not Invited to Protest

Photo: AP

In Peshawar, the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), led by jailed former Prime Minister Imran Khan, has sought to clarify its stance following an invitation extended to Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar. The party emphasized that no foreign nation plays a role in its political activities, underlining its commitment to national sovereignty.

Barrister Gohar Ali Khan, the party chairman, made a statement on Saturday to address remarks made by Muhammad Ali Saif, an advisor to the chief minister of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, a province governed by PTI. Saif had suggested that the party would invite Jaishankar to its protests, a comment that drew significant backlash from the ruling coalition and raised concerns about the implications of involving foreign officials in domestic issues.

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Saif's original remarks, made sarcastically in response to a media inquiry, implied that inviting Jaishankar would showcase Pakistan as a robust democracy where citizens exercise their right to protest. However, this interpretation was contested by Gohar Ali Khan, who clarified that Saif's comments were misrepresented and taken out of context.

Gohar emphasized the longstanding position of the PTI regarding its relationship with India, stating, “Pakistan’s 70-year-old policy about India is the backbone of the PTI party.” He reinforced that peaceful protest is a constitutional right, but reiterated that no foreign dignitary, including Jaishankar, has been formally invited to participate in the protests. He firmly stated, “No foreign country, including India, has any role in PTI's political struggle.”

The party has been actively organizing protests to demand adherence to the constitution, advocate for judicial independence, and address rising inflation. They are also calling for the release of Imran Khan, who has been incarcerated since August 5, 2023, facing multiple legal challenges and convictions.

As the situation develops, the PTI has resolved to continue its demonstrations until Khan himself instructs his supporters to cease their activities. The party’s leadership hopes to maintain clarity about its objectives and principles, especially in light of the sensitivity surrounding foreign involvement in domestic politics.

Jaishankar is scheduled to attend the upcoming Shanghai Cooperation Organisation's Council of Heads of Government meeting in Pakistan on October 15 and 16, further adding to the complexities of the political landscape. The ruling coalition has labeled Saif's comments as "highly irresponsible," asserting that extending such an invitation indicates a disregard for national interests and could foster enmity toward Pakistan.

As tensions simmer, the PTI remains focused on its internal challenges, seeking to navigate its path amid the contentious political climate while upholding its foundational policies.

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