PTI's August 5 rally meaningless: Kundi

Governor urges party to approach courts for Imran's release

PESHAWAR:

Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Governor Faisal Karim Kundi has termed Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf's (PTI) proposed August 5 rally meaningless, saying the party should first ask its former chief minister Ali Amin Gandapur why PTI founder Imran Khan remains behind bars.

Speaking to the media on the sidelines of a Ulema and Mashaikh Conference organised by the National Paigham-e-Aman Committee in Peshawar, Kundi said the nation was observing Martyrs' Day while PTI was holding public gatherings. He said Khan had been sentenced by courts and should seek legal remedies instead of taking to the streets.

"Rallies on roads and in stadiums cannot secure anyone's release," he said, questioning the whereabouts of PTI's Tiger Force, which had reportedly been formed to campaign for Khan's release. He said there had been talk of registering and administering an oath to the force, but neither process had taken place.

Kundi said PTI had no clear plan and its statements should therefore not be taken seriously. Responding to a question, he said negotiations would be held with those willing to negotiate. He also reiterated that there was zero tolerance for terrorism.

On the Kashmir elections, the governor said leaving the electoral field did not bring about a revolution. He challenged the Pakistan Peoples Party's critics to provide evidence if they alleged rigging in the elections.

Addressing the conference earlier, Kundi stressed the need to promote inter-sectarian harmony and interfaith tolerance, saying Ulema had a crucial role in guiding the younger generation towards the true principles of Islam.

He said Pakistan's armed forces deserved respect for their professionalism and sacrifices. He also praised the government and military leadership for their role in safeguarding the country and said Pakistan had played an active diplomatic role during the Iran-US conflict.