Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan said on Tuesday that there was no question of withdrawing the protest call for Thursday, 8 February.
Speaking to the media outside Adiala jail, he said that neither a “new Pakistan” had been created nor the old system restored, and that the hybrid model had 'failed'. He urged that anyone able to arrange a meeting with PTI founder Imran Khan should do so, adding that the operation in Tirah should be treated as a narrative battle, not politicised. He warned that terrorism had previously gained ground due to internal divisions.
Barrister Gohar said he learned through the media that Imran Khan had developed an eye infection, calling it a matter of concern if true. He stressed that family visits should not be politicised and said that when institutions, including the judiciary, become inactive, the public will take to the streets. He questioned whether politics would end on 9 February if meetings remained suspended until 8 February.
He said Imran Khan had mandated Mahmood Khan Achakzai and Allama Nasir to lead negotiations, and that the two opposition leaders would decide when and with whom to engage. He reiterated that withdrawing the 8 February call did not arise and urged restraint in language, asking all sides to avoid abusive remarks.
Referring to remarks by KP Chief Minister Sohail Afridi about talks between the provincial and federal governments, Barrister Gohar said there could be no negotiations with those using violence. He called for a clear narrative and for bringing the provincial assembly on board, warning that confusion would only strengthen the terrorists’ narrative. He added that he would not meet the party founder alone.
