ISLAMABAD: PTI chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan has responded to the furious press briefing aganst Imran Khan and PTI. Gohar Ali Khan urged de-escalation following a sharp ISPR press conference. He said the military’s briefing left him disappointed as he seeks reduced tensions.
He posted his response on X only hours after the ISPR’s strong criticism of PTI. ISPR Director General Lt Gen Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry had accused the PTI founder of promoting anti-army rhetoric.
PTI Rejects Allegations of Anti-State Narrative
Gohar said he respected the importance of national defence and state institutions. He insisted that PTI has never advanced an anti-state narrative. He called it regrettable when institutions and political leaders label others mentally unstable.
He added that such remarks damage national unity and deepen political divides. He emphasised that Pakistan and its armed forces belong to every citizen. He maintained that PTI has consistently demonstrated commitment to national stability.
Call for Dialogue and Reduced Tensions
Gohar highlighted the need for mutual respect and political space. He said all sides must acknowledge each other to rebuild trust. He warned that actions by non-stakeholders should not worsen relations between PTI and institutions. He stated that the PTI founder and Bushra Bibi remain jailed without meeting permissions.
He said allowing meetings could support reconciliation and ease tensions. He warned that Pakistan cannot endure further political unrest.
ISPR Labels Imran Khan a Security Threat
The ISPR DG had delivered a two-hour briefing criticising Imran Khan. He called the PTI founder mentally ill and a national security threat. He accused the former premier of working with external elements.
He said Imran Khan spread disinformation and targeted the armed forces. He claimed the PTI founder built a coordinated troll system to attack institutions. He said foreign media platforms amplified these messages in synchronised cycles.
Government Imposes Ban on Jail Meetings
Information Minister Attaullah Tarar responded shortly after the ISPR briefing. He announced a complete ban on meetings with the PTI founder at Adiala jail. He called the former prime minister an extremist driven by dangerous impulses.
He said no further meetings would be allowed under the new directive. Tarar also pledged action against individuals spreading anti-state narratives.
