Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leader and former senator Azam Swati has revealed that he has formally initiated contact with the establishment, following explicit permission from PTI founder Imran Khan, who remains incarcerated at Adiala Jail.
Speaking to private news channel, Swati said the dialogue process began Thursday, and that he remains “100 percent hopeful” about its outcome. He also hinted that “friendly countries” may play a role in facilitating the evolving political engagement.
“I’ve initiated these contacts today with the guidance of the PTI founder,” Swati stated. “Imran Khan told me: ‘Azam, you are my loyal companion. Go ahead and talk. I will not negotiate — that’s not my role.’”
Swati confirmed plans for a key meeting with what he described as a “special person” in Islamabad, expected to take place on or around April 16. “This will be a preliminary meeting. After that, I’ll be in a better position to discuss what lies ahead,” he said.
The former senator also noted that he remains in close coordination with the Pakistani diaspora in the United States and has kept senior party leadership, including former president Dr. Arif Alvi, informed. “I told Dr. Alvi about the meeting and requested him, along with other party colleagues, to join the initiative,” he added.
Swati met with Imran Khan on April 2 at Adiala Jail, after the party submitted his name twice for approval. Reflecting on the meeting, he said, “I wept and prayed for guidance. When I met him, he listened and said, ‘Azam, I agree.’ That was all the assurance I needed.”
Addressing rumors surrounding his outreach efforts, Swati rejected claims that he had been planted by external forces. “Some suggest I was sent by generals or the timber mafia. That’s false. I’ve stood firm through everything. This mission is bigger than any individual — it’s about restoring Pakistan through its institutions.”
He emphasized that his initiative is rooted in national interest, not personal ambition. “My conscience is clear. I feel ashamed walking free while my leader remains behind bars. If I can open a door that leads to national reconciliation, may Allah grant success.”
When asked by host Nadeem Malik whether Imran Khan had directly instructed him to reach out to the establishment, Swati responded without hesitation: “Yes. I began this effort today in the name of Allah.”
He acknowledged that earlier attempts — including those involving former President Alvi and intermediaries linked to Army Chief General Asim Munir — failed due to miscommunication. “There was never a deal, only a desire for dialogue,” Swati clarified.
He also referenced his role during the 2022 political crisis, noting that while he did engage with the establishment at the time, it was without direct access or success. “Now, I’m trying again — but with clarity and conviction.”
Swati quoted Imran Khan as saying he would not seek retribution in the interest of national progress. “Talks are not a sign of weakness. They are necessary for Pakistan’s future,” he added.
Looking ahead, Swati suggested the process may eventually involve international stakeholders. “I believe the winds of change have started blowing. Some friendly countries may step in. I have a vision in my mind — let’s see where the upcoming meeting leads.”
