PTI to submit written demands to the government, says Barrister Gohar Ali Khan

Islamabad, January 8, 2025: Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan confirmed on Wednesday that the party has decided to submit its demands in writing to the government as part of ongoing negotiations aimed at defusing political tensions.

Speaking to the media after a meeting with PTI founder Imran Khan, Barrister Gohar Ali Khan explained that the decision to present the party’s two demands in writing came on the instructions of Imran Khan. He emphasised that while there was no immediate necessity to formalise the demands in this manner, the party chose to avoid any delays in the talks by taking this step. “Khan sahab has granted us permission and said that we should give [our demands] in writing, so we will do that,” Barrister Gohar Ali Khan said.

The political dialogue between the PTI and the government has been ongoing since Imran Khan’s imprisonment in multiple cases last year, which led to a sharp deterioration in the party’s relationship with the government and the establishment. The situation has been further complicated by protests and violent clashes, triggering widespread state repression.

In response to the crisis, Imran Khan established a five-member committee within PTI to engage in talks with “anyone,” signalling the party’s willingness to negotiate. The government also set up its committee, which included members from the ruling coalition. The first meeting between the two sides took place on December 23, and the second round of discussions was held on January 2. However, no significant progress has been made thus far. A third meeting is expected later this week.

After finally gaining access to Imran Khan a day ago, PTI leaders held a press conference in which they emphasised the need for an ‘unmonitored’ meeting with the party founder, further stressing their commitment to negotiations for the country’s future, not for securing a “deal.”

Addressing media speculation about an alleged offer made to Imran Khan through Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur, Barrister Gohar dismissed the reports. He stated that PTI had not pursued any “offers” at any stage of its talks with the government, casting doubt on the authenticity of the claims made by Imran’s sister, Aleema Khan.