Imran seeks talks within 'lawful confines'

Ex-PM clarifies any negotiations with the military would be by the book

RAWALPINDI:

PTI founder Imran Khan has once again ruled out the possibility of getting down to brass tacks with political rivals, saying that negotiations can only take place with the real power brokers while warning that if talks were held with the government, it will be curtains for the latter.

He clarified that any negotiations with the military would be by the book and within the constitutional framework.

However, Imran said he has tasked Mahmood Khan Achakzai, the opposition alliance president, with engaging in dialogue with political parties.

In an informal conversation with journalists at Adiala Jail on Saturday, the former premier stood his ground that he would not eat humble pie. Instead, he asserted, apologies should be directed towards him for the injustices his party has faced.

The incarcerated leader argued that nowhere in the constitution does it say that peaceful demonstrations in front of the GHQ were a crime.

The PTI founder criticised NAB for filing a second reference in the Toshakhana case, accusing the anti-graft agency of violating their own laws.

He further vowed to take those who made false statements to the cleaners, including Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, the NAB chairman, and investigating officers, once he is acquitted.

He claimed he had suffered food poisoning twice in jail due to the lack of refrigeration facilities, which spoiled the food.

The former prime minister pointed out inconsistencies in the NAB's accusations regarding the value of a necklace, which was the basis of both references and revealed that valuable items were moved to a safe location before a raid on his Bani Gala residence on March 18.

He argued that democracy was driven by ethics, not by force, and condemned the use of power to manipulate the parliament.

"Democracy worldwide operates on moral grounds; never has a parliament functioned under duress. Those sitting in the parliament have discarded all moral authority. Just like in the past, they are once again attacking the courts," he stated.

The PTI founder also mentioned that past incidents have proven certain statements regarding the poll rigging by the former commissioner of Rawalpindi to be true.

On negotiations, he said, "If negotiations are to take place, they will be based on two conditions: first, the talks must be within the constitutional framework, and second, my stolen mandate must be returned. An undeclared martial law is in place in the country."

In response to a journalist's question about the military demanding a public apology, he retorted that the apology should come from them as he was the one wronged, having been abducted by the Rangers.

Regarding Mahmood Achakzai's refusal to negotiate with the military on his behalf, he retracted his previous statement, clarifying, "Mahmood Achakzai has mentioned negotiations with political parties, not the military."

When questioned about the apparent U-turn from his previous hearing, he asserted, "The real U-turn is from those who raised the slogan 'Respect the Vote' but then honoured the 'boot'."

In response to a question about his party members making statements against the military, he defended their right to criticise any government institution involved in wrongdoing.

When repeatedly asked about the removal of Sher Afzal Marwat from the party, the former PTI chairman remained silent, only saying, "We will talk later."

Meanwhile, as the questions continued, Intezar Panjutha persistently tried to engage him, whispering in his ear. Finally, upon being asked for the third time, he responded, "We will discuss Sher Afzal Marwat's matter later."