Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Chairman Barrister Gohar has firmly stated that the party will not face a ban, despite ongoing tensions surrounding the political party's protests and clashes with security forces.
Speaking to journalists after meeting PTI founder Imran Khan outside Adiala Jail, Mr Gohar condemned the violence during the protests but assured that Imran Khan would soon announce the future course of action.
Addressing the media, Barrister Gohar clarified that Imran Khan had not been informed of the controversial incident on November 26, when gunfire erupted during a PTI-led protest.
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He stressed that PTI remains committed to peaceful political engagement. "From whichever side the bullet was fired, we condemn it. We are a peaceful party, and our workers are enduring tough circumstances," he stated. Gauhar added that Imran Khan would provide further direction in due course.
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Gohar also dismissed rumours about Imran Khan's health, asserting that the reports suggesting his deteriorating condition were false. "Alhamdulillah, he is completely fine and healthy," he said.
"I met him in jail today and briefed him on the ongoing protests and other critical issues following the final call for action made on November 24."
The claims of Imran Khan’s life being in danger in jail were recently made by PTI leader and former Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly, Qasim Khan Suri.
Suri alleged that Imran Khan had been subjected to mental distress, suggesting that the PTI founder may have been poisoned in his cell. However, Barrister Gauhar rejected these claims and reiterated that Imran Khan was in good health.
The controversy surrounding the November 26 protests, which were sparked by Imran Khan’s call for a march to Islamabad, escalated when violent clashes broke out between PTI supporters and the police.
PTI leaders, including Chief Minister of Pakhtunkhwa Ali Amin Gandapur, later presented conflicting reports regarding the casualties. While PTI officials claimed that several of their workers had died during the confrontation, Islamabad and Rawalpindi police officials countered these claims, asserting that PTI protesters had attacked police personnel with firearms, sticks, and batons, resulting in over 170 officers being injured.
Barrister Gohar expressed his sorrow over the fatalities, including both PTI workers and law enforcement officers. He revealed that Imran Khan had expressed deep regret over the loss of life and injuries sustained by his supporters and security personnel.
"Imran Khan has always advocated for peace, and these tragic events are part of the negative propaganda aimed at sowing division," Gauhar added.
The PTI leader also addressed attempts to divert attention from the protests, specifically the talks around D-Chowk and Sang Jani. He questioned whether such incidents of violence should be tolerated, using historical examples of gunfire during past political unrest.
"Would it have been acceptable if bullets had been fired in Sang Jani?" Gauhar asked. "A commission should be formed to investigate this matter, just like the Model Town tragedy."
Imran Khan, according to Barrister Gauhar, has directed that a requisition be submitted to convene a session of the National Assembly to discuss the situation. The PTI leadership continues to advocate for an impartial investigation into the violence surrounding the November protests.
