PTI Chairman Reveals Backdoor Military Contacts, Clarifies Stance on Current Dialogues

 KARACHI: Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan has disclosed that his party engaged in “backdoor contacts” with the military prior to its November 2024 protest. However, he confirmed on Friday that this communication channel has since been severed.

Speaking to DawnNewsTV’s Nadir Guramani, Mr. Gohar stated that the only ongoing discussions are with the government. He emphasized that PTI founder Imran Khan and other leaders had previously hinted at talks with the military, recognizing its influence as the “real decision maker and power center” in the country.

In the lead-up to the November 2024 protest, Imran Khan authorized senior party leaders to initiate talks with the military leadership. Mr. Gohar confirmed that the dialogue initially progressed in a “positive direction,” but it collapsed following Imran Khan’s arrest on terrorism charges stemming from a September protest, despite being granted bail in the Toshakhana case concerning the acquisition of a Bulgari jewelry set.

“Currently, PTI is not engaged in any backdoor talks with the establishment,” Mr. Gohar said. However, he noted that the option for future dialogue with the military remains open.

He also dismissed speculation about offers to relocate Imran Khan from Adiala Jail to his residence in Banigala, stating that the PTI founder views his incarceration as illegal and, therefore, sees no merit in considering such offers.

Trilateral Talks Ruled Out

Mr. Gohar ruled out the possibility of negotiations between Imran Khan, PML-N leader Nawaz Sharif, and PPP co-chairperson Asif Ali Zardari, citing “irreconcilable differences” between the political figures.

Reacting to PML-N leader Rana Sanaullah’s suggestion of a meeting among the three leaders to address Pakistan’s crises, Mr. Gohar termed the idea “idealistic” but unfeasible under current circumstances.

“I might witness such talks in my lifetime, but at this point, it is not a possibility,” he remarked.

Talks with Government Unaffected by Upcoming Verdict

In Peshawar, PTI Central Information Secretary Sheikh Waqqas Akram affirmed that ongoing negotiations with the government will not be disrupted by the forthcoming judgment in the £190 million case, scheduled for January 6.

At a press conference, Mr. Akram underscored that PTI remains committed to the talks, provided the government demonstrates seriousness. He clarified that the release of 19 PTI workers previously sentenced by military courts was not tied to these discussions, asserting their release was based on innocence and judicial merit.