Barrister Gohar Khan, the top leader of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), made a fervent appeal on Sunday for the release of his party’s “political prisoners,” including the party’s founder, Imran Khan. This call came in response to the statement by army chief General Asim Munir, who emphasized the necessity for a “healing touch” following the general elections held on February 8.
In his remarks, the military leader extended congratulations to the nation for the successful conduct of the elections. He underscored the importance of stable leadership and a unifying approach to surpass Pakistan’s tumultuous political history.
General Munir emphasized that Pakistan’s diverse polity and pluralism would be best represented by a unified government comprising all democratic forces with a national purpose.
According to the military’s media wing, the COAS highlighted the nation’s need for stable leadership and a healing touch to move past the divisive politics of anarchy and polarization, which do not align with the progressive spirit of a country with 250 million people. He stressed that elections should not be viewed as a zero-sum competition but as an exercise to ascertain the people’s mandate.
In response to General Munir’s statement, Barrister Gohar asserted that a “healing touch” entails the absence of political prisoners in the country. This statement was made during an interview with Arab News, indicating the direction of the party’s future actions as its candidates lead in the polls.
Gohar emphasized the need to respect PTI’s mandate, stating that without it, true healing cannot occur. He clarified that a “united government” does not necessarily imply a coalition government but rather unity among all parties in respecting and upholding the people’s mandate.
The PTI chairman revealed that 95 out of 102 independent candidates were supported by the party and remained loyalists. Additionally, the PTI plans to contest results in at least 50 seats where they believe the outcome has been manipulated.
Gohar expressed confidence in the PTI’s near victory in Punjab and claimed a two-thirds majority in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. He also hinted at forming the government at the federal level.
However, Gohar voiced concerns over the Election Commission of Pakistan’s (ECP) delayed release of results, threatening peaceful protests if results were not announced promptly.
Asserting that the nation had favored PTI, Gohar suggested the potential release of the party’s founder in the near future, hinting at legal avenues to challenge his convictions.
