ISLAMABAD: On Wednesday, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan voiced his confidence in independent candidates contesting elections after the party’s symbol was revoked, assuring that they would remain loyal to PTI even post-elections.
Barrister Gohar Ali Khan clarified that while these candidates cannot run as official PTI aspirants, they have the option to join the party after winning as independents. He mentioned that independents would have a three-day window to align themselves with any political party. Additionally, he hinted at a “Plan C” for PTI, which would be revealed after the polls.
Responding to PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto’s assertion of forming a government with the assistance of independents, Barrister Gohar dismissed the idea, stating that the PTI has been emphasizing to the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) the potential for ‘horse trading’ and corruption arising from independent candidates.
Barrister Gohar lamented that the PTI is facing restrictions on conducting election campaigns, particularly in Punjab, and highlighted the rejection of nomination papers for PTI-backed candidates. He noted that the party has approached the apex court to ensure a ‘level playing field.’
In a previous statement on January 17, Barrister Gohar Ali Khan revealed that the party founder had issued instructions to resolve internal differences, pledging strict action against those violating party discipline.
He clarified that the alliance with PTI-Nazriyati was made after consultation with the founder and other party committees. Dismissing reports of seeking an explanation from the founder, he asserted that the decision was made collectively after considering various party alliances.
