Imran Khan’s X handle operated by Ilyas, Mashwani from abroad: Gohar

PTI chairman, Raoof Hasan struggled to justify controversial video during the FIA inquiry, say sources

PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan addressing media outside Rawalpindi’s Adiala Jail on April 23, 2024. SCREENGRAB

Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Chairman Gohar Khan, in his statement to the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) regarding the controversial video released from Imran Khan's social media account, expressed disagreement with the decision to upload the said video. He confirmed that Jibran Ilyas and Azhar Mashwani manage the social media accounts of the incarcerated PTI founder from abroad.

During the FIA's cybercrime inquiry into the contentious video, Barrister Gohar was interrogated for two hours, while the party's Information Secretary, Raoof Hasan, was questioned for four hours.

Sources revealed that Gohar expressed disagreement with the content of the controversial video. He stressed the need to avoid escalating the situation and importance of finding a peaceful resolution.

Barrister Gohar reiterated that he did not conclusively agree with the upload of the contentious video, affirming that Ilyas and Mashwani, managing social media accounts from abroad, bear primary responsibility for the content creation and video production. He distanced himself from any involvement in this regard.

Also read: PTI’s Sanam Javed rearrested after delay in delivery of release order

When asked about the rationale behind PTI's decision to entrust social media responsibilities to individuals residing outside the country, Gohar refrained from providing satisfactory clarification, citing prior approval of such arrangements within the party before his involvement.

Raoof Hasan, responded to inquiries during the investigation, stating that the party’s social media is being operated by Ilyas, based in the United States, and he remains accountable for the situation. However, Hasan stated that he lacked information leading to the video's upload.

When queried about the similarities depicted in the controversial video by displaying the image of the current military leadership, Raoof Hasan stated that he would bring these concerns to Imran Khan's attention and seek clarification.

Sources also revealed that Barrister Gohar struggled to justify the controversial video during the inquiry. Raoof Hasan also attributed the video to the social media team, while PTI Secretary-General Omar Ayub did not attend the inquiry and instead sent his lawyer.

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