In a resolute message released by the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party, the jailed former Prime Minister Imran Khan asserted his determination to resist any compromise with what he termed as the forces that have “enslaved” the nation. Khan, who has been behind bars for the past nine months, declared, “I will remain in jail if I have to for nine more years, or more, but I will never strike a deal with those who have enslaved my nation.”
The statement came as Khan addressed the PTI’s 28th Foundation Day, highlighting the challenges faced by Pakistan under what he termed as the “worst dictatorship,” which he claimed was contributing to the destruction of the economy, government rule, democracy, and judiciary. He urged every citizen to play their part in halting the country’s descent into ruin.
Khan alleged that he had been detained due to what he described as “fake [and] concocted cases.” Since his removal from power through a no-confidence motion in April 2022, Khan has faced convictions in at least four cases and has been held at Adiala Jail in Rawalpindi.
The PTI leader’s message follows a period of heightened political tension, with his party facing crackdowns after falling out with the powerful military. PTI members have been subject to arrests and desertions, particularly in the aftermath of violence that erupted following Khan’s arrest last year.
Khan’s stance on negotiations was echoed by PTI leader Shehryar Afridi, who emphasized that talks would not be held with the Pakistan Peoples Party led by Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari or the ruling Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz. Instead, Afridi asserted that discussions would be pursued with military leadership, including the Army chief and the Director-General of the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), in order to prioritize national security.
Describing the PPP and PML-N as a “rejected lot,” Afridi reiterated the PTI’s commitment to engaging with the military for the sake of Pakistan’s freedom and future. He suggested that the two parties’ only option was to abandon their mandate, after which the PTI would decide on further engagement.
Afridi also addressed previous claims that Khan had been pressured to accept a “deal,” emphasizing that the PTI was neither interested in nor holding talks with any party or entity. Earlier speculations regarding secret negotiations with the establishment were firmly rejected by PTI leader Barrister Gohar Ali Khan.
Political Strategies and Future Prospects
The PTI’s political fortunes were discussed in the context of the recent general election held on February 8, where independent candidates backed by the party secured over 90 seats in the National Assembly. However, a post-poll alliance formed by the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz and the Pakistan Peoples Party sidelined Khan’s party from forming a federal government, with power assumed by the PMN-L led by former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif.
As tensions continue to simmer within Pakistan’s political landscape, Khan’s unwavering stance against what he perceives as the subjugation of the nation by ruling parties reflects the ongoing struggle for power and governance in the country. With Khan vowing to endure further imprisonment rather than compromise on his principles, the path forward remains uncertain amidst a backdrop of political intrigue and contention.
