Undeterred, PTI to plough ahead with poll drive

LAHORE/RAWALPINDI:

Against the odds and despite strong headwinds, the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) has declared its intent to forge ahead with its election campaign, with the party’s ex-chairman, Imran Khan, sending encouragement and solace to workers from behind bars.

Moreover, PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar Khan held a meeting with President Dr Arif Alvi. The discussions revolved around the current political landscape in the country, according to an official press release from the President's House.

The party has disseminated directives to all its organisations, urging them to orchestrate political endeavours in anticipation of the impending elections.

A spokesperson for the party clarified on Tuesday that there was no imperative for a 'long march' preceding the elections, and no decision to embark on such an endeavour has been taken by the PTI.

He asserted that meticulous and comprehensive preparations were crucial, adding that workers are tasked with ensuring thorough readiness for the polls across the country, adhering to targets set by the core committee.

It was underscored that the party vehemently discouraged any form of provocation, violence, or campaigns against state institutions, as such actions are incongruent with the fundamental principles and ethos of the party's philosophy and struggle.

“The political journey of the party’s former chairman, Imran Khan, stands as an exemplar of non-violence, adherence to the rule of law, and the pursuit of peaceful political progress.”

The spokesperson affirmed that PTI categorically rejects extra-legal or violent means and resources in pursuit of peaceful political objectives.

He said the party remains resolute in preventing any such attempts from finding a platform within its ranks. “PTI believes in the constructive role of institutions, particularly the armed forces of Pakistan, operating within the parameters and constraints delineated by the constitution,” he further clarified.Imran sends encouragement to workersSeparately, PTI’s Senior Vice President Sher Afzal Marwat relayed a message from imprisoned leader Imran Khan.

Marwat said that Imran urged party workers to persist in their campaigning efforts until February 8, emphasising the importance of maintaining peace in the face of any crackdown.

Talking to journalists after a meeting with the party’s ex-chairman PTI in Adiala Jail for an hour, he shared that Imran has encouraged workers to carry on their campaign peacefully.

During the meeting, Imran also directed overseas Pakistanis not to organise protest demonstrations abroad, as it would tarnish the country’s image internationally.

The PTI leader revealed that Imran also expressed reservations about the ongoing trial but has kept his morale high.
"Imran Khan is steadfast in continuing the struggle until February 8," Marwat said, adding that a mere numerical superiority in votes was not sufficient as ensuring votes for the right candidates was crucial.

Marwat also announced an upcoming convention within a week and a half, with a particular focus on the battleground of Punjab. However, he lamented the lack of security provided by the caretaker government to the party.

Despite challenges, he assured that PTI's conventions in Punjab would remain peaceful as the party remains committed to peaceful conduct in all circumstances.

Besides, the party plans to hold meetings and conventions in Karachi and Balochistan.

In a reference to the acquittals of PML-N supremo Nawaz Sharif in legal cases, the PTI leader raised questions about the judicial standards noting that a previously convicted individual was being reinstated.