PESHAWAR: Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur has reiterated Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf’s (PTI) unwavering commitment to upholding democracy, safeguarding the rule of law, and ensuring the protection of citizens’ fundamental rights.
In a statement issued on Sunday, Gandapur emphasized that PTI founder Imran Khan and his wife, Bushra Bibi, continue to demonstrate steadfast faith in the law, even in the face of what they perceive as unfair treatment. The Chief Minister further affirmed that their political struggle will persist, stating, “We will stand by PTI founder Imran Khan until my last breath.”
Gandapur’s statement comes as part of PTI’s ongoing efforts to reaffirm its position on governance and judicial matters. He highlighted the significance of an independent judiciary and the freedom of media, stressing that these pillars are essential for the well-being of democracy. The Chief Minister noted that individuals who are fearful often compromise their principles, but PTI, under Imran Khan’s leadership, remains resolute in its mission to ensure that democracy flourishes in Pakistan and the rule of law is upheld.
The statement also emphasized the broader political struggle PTI is engaged in, particularly in the face of challenges that the party perceives as unjust. Gandapur’s comments underscore the continuing ideological divide between PTI and the current government, with a focus on holding the judiciary and media free from external influence or pressure.
In parallel with Gandapur’s comments, the PTI negotiation committee, led by party spokesperson Sahibzada Hamid Raza, has communicated that PTI will not engage in further negotiations with the government unless a judicial commission is established to investigate the events of May 9 and November 26. The committee set a clear deadline for the government to act, demanding that the commission be formed by January 31. Without this commission, PTI has warned that talks will not progress.
Raza, who met with Imran Khan at Adiala Jail recently, reiterated that the ball is now in the government’s court. He emphasized that PTI is not asking for a commission with a judge of their choosing, but for an impartial and fair body to investigate the events of May 9 and November 26. These incidents have been a focal point of controversy, with PTI alleging that injustices were committed against its leadership and supporters.
The committee’s other key demand involves the release of prisoners, a matter that has garnered significant attention in recent weeks. Raza underscored that although negotiations were being conducted in a controlled environment, the next steps are ultimately up to the government. He urged swift action to resolve the situation, stating, “We have shown as much flexibility as we could.” Raza made it clear that the formation of a judicial commission is a non-negotiable precondition for moving forward with talks.
As the political situation continues to unfold, PTI remains focused on securing the formation of a fair and impartial judicial body to investigate alleged injustices. The government now faces mounting pressure to respond to PTI’s demands, as the political drama surrounding these negotiations intensifies. The formation of a judicial commission, along with other key demands, could play a pivotal role in determining the future direction of the country’s political landscape.
