Imran Khan bars PTI leaders from holding talks with establishment, says Barrister Gohar

PTI chairman dismisses claims by Senator Azam Swati, who had suggested that Imran Khan had approved backchannel talks.

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Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan has categorically denied granting permission to any party member to engage in negotiations with the establishment, according to PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan.

Speaking to reporters outside Rawalpindi’s Adiala Jail on Tuesday after meeting the former prime minister, Gohar dismissed recent claims by PTI Senator Azam Swati, who had suggested that Khan had approved backchannel talks to stabilise the country’s political situation.

Swati, in a recent television interview, had hinted at possible meetings with key figures and even proposed involving former President Dr Arif Alvi in the negotiation process.

However, Gohar made it clear that Khan has neither authorised such initiatives nor pressured anyone to broker a deal. “PTI founder said that he has not pressurised anyone to strike a deal,” he said, adding that Khan issued six statements during their meeting.

He also addressed the mining and minerals bill introduced in the Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Assembly. He stated that the PTI founder would present a formal position after consultation with political leaders, particularly K-P Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur.

The bill has stirred criticism from opposition parties and some PTI members, who argue it compromises provincial autonomy. The K-P government, however, maintains the bill aims to curb illegal mining and encourage investment.

Khan also shared concerns over Afghan refugee issues and regional dynamics involving Afghanistan. On internal matters, he instructed party members to avoid public criticism of each other, urging unity as PTI considers forming a broader opposition alliance.

“PTI founder said that all opposition parties will have to gather on a single platform for [the protection of] democracy,” he noted.

He criticised jail authorities for limiting access to Khan, revealing that while only two lawyers were approved for the meeting, five were allowed inside.

Gohar also condemned the continued denial of visits by Khan’s family, especially his sisters, despite clear Islamabad High Court orders permitting biweekly meetings.