Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founding leader Imran Khan has come to the defense of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur, following the recent controversy over his remarks. Khan stated that Gandapur was merely voicing the “nation’s sentiments.”
In response to criticism, Khan said, “Party members who apologized for Gandapur’s remarks are weak and cowardly. They have no place in PTI.”
Imran Khan also expressed his frustration with the establishment, stating they had “deceived” him and announcing that he was officially cutting off any further negotiations with the establishment or other political parties.
Speaking to journalists at Adiala Jail, Khan disclosed that he had previously allowed six party leaders to engage in dialogue with the establishment but had never stopped anyone from doing so. However, from this point forward, he instructed his party to cease any talks.
Khan highlighted that the date and NOC for the September 8 rally were provided by the establishment, and whether or not they receive permission, PTI plans to hold the rally in Lahore on September 21.
Addressing allegations made by Faisal Vawda regarding the murder of journalist Arshad Sharif, Khan denied any involvement and called for a public trial to uncover the truth. He added, “Everyone knows who Faisal Vawda is speaking for,” alleging that Vawda had previously tried to arrange a meeting with General Faisal Naseer.
Khan criticized the power dynamics in the country, stating, “In this country, decisions are made by those who wield the stick, and those decisions become law. Only democracy and the rule of law can save this nation.” He also claimed to be unaware of any government deal with the IMF.
Imran Khan appeared visibly upset during the informal conversation, particularly noting that, aside from Barrister Ali Zafar, no other party leader had visited him at Adiala Jail that day.
Meanwhile, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur is under fire for his controversial remarks during a PTI rally in Islamabad, where he targeted journalists, Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, and state institutions. Gandapur’s incendiary comments prompted strong criticism from federal ministers and senators.
Federal Information Minister Attaullah Tarar condemned Gandapur, stating, “Those who are hollow inside can only hurl threats,” and criticized the K-P government’s failure to address rising militancy.
Journalists also staged protests in both houses of parliament in response to Gandapur’s derogatory remarks, which included labeling members of the media as “sellouts” and “brokers.” PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan issued an unconditional apology on Gandapur’s behalf, stating, “We respect the entire journalist community,” and clarified that the remarks were only directed at a few journalists.
Although Gohar’s apology aimed to defuse the situation, journalists insisted on receiving a direct apology from Ali Amin Gandapur himself.
