ISLAMABAD: A recent meeting between Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi, PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan and Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi has triggered political speculation, with sources claiming the discussions extended beyond security-related matters and also focused on jailed PTI founder Imran Khan.
According to informed sources, the meeting took place on the 14th of this month at Barrister Gohar’s residence in Islamabad, a location that has reportedly served in the past as a discreet channel for sensitive contacts between PTI leaders and relevant authorities.
While the worsening security situation and terrorism-related concerns were discussed, insiders said political matters formed a major part of the conversation. Issues concerning PTI founder Imran Khan, including improved access for family members and party leaders to meet him in jail, reportedly received special attention.
“If the discussion was limited to security matters, neither the venue nor the participants would have been the same,” a source familiar with the meeting said.
Sources described the interaction as part of ongoing backchannel efforts aimed at easing political tensions and creating space for broader reconciliation between the concerned sides. PTI representatives reportedly warned that continued restrictions on meetings with Imran Khan could further intensify the political atmosphere.
The talks also allegedly covered concerns regarding medical facilities and other humanitarian issues. At the same time, officials are said to have communicated their own reservations and “red lines,” particularly regarding PTI’s political conduct and statements considered sensitive by the establishment.
Sources rejected claims that the meeting took place under pressure, insisting that none of the participants were forced to attend. According to insiders, the purpose was to improve mutual understanding and avoid further confrontation.
Sources further claimed that recent remarks by Aleema Khan on social media negatively affected these quiet reconciliation efforts and may have damaged the possibility of allowing Imran Khan’s sisters to meet him in jail in the near future.
