Gohar Khan calls for Imran Khan, Bushra Bibi’s release; warns against curtailing jail meetings

Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Chairman Barrister Gohar Khan Tuesday said the party is intensifying efforts for the release of its founder Imran Khan and his spouse Bushra Bibi, citing health concerns and democratic principles, reported 24NewsHd Tv channel.

Speaking to the media, he said he had also met with families of detained party workers in Lahore as well as Khan’s sister Noreen Niazi and reaffirmed the party’s commitment to securing relief for its leadership.

He stressed that Bushra Bibi’s deteriorating health required urgent attention and called for her immediate release, adding that efforts in this regard had been stepped up.

The PTI chairman said the party had requested authorities to shift Bushra Bibi to a hospital until her full recovery, noting that her family had recently been allowed to meet her following surgery. “Our demand is that she be provided proper medical care,” he said.

Gohar maintained that PTI leadership continues to visit Adiala Jail every Tuesday in compliance with orders of the Islamabad High Court.

However, he warned that the move to stop such meetings after October 16, 2025, would be detrimental to democratic norms. “Restricting meetings with a leader of such a large political party is not a good omen for democracy,” he added.

Addressing internal party matters, Gohar said he had met Sohail Afridi but declined to share details, while noting that Mahmood Khan Achakzai had been entrusted with responsibilities by the PTI founder. He said Imran Khan had directed that Achakzai be supported in whatever decisions he makes, adding that any misunderstandings would be resolved through dialogue.

On the absence of Achakzai from the Mardan rally, Gohar said the issue had not yet been discussed with him. He also clarified that PTI’s official stance is conveyed by its leadership, stating that no individual controls social media narratives.

The PTI chairman acknowledged concerns among party workers, admitting that the leadership may not have fully met their expectations. “Whatever we are doing is in line with the instructions of the founder,” he said.

Commenting on party discipline, Gohar urged members to operate within party frameworks and avoid using harsh language, particularly towards Imran Khan’s sisters. He clarified that Aleema Khan had never issued him directives, and that her discussions were always related to the party founder.

Gohar further said Imran Khan had conveyed a message regarding the cancellation of the April 9 rally, adding that the founder’s family was not engaged in politics for personal gain but remained concerned about efforts for his release.

On broader issues, he reiterated PTI’s stance against terrorism, calling for its complete eradication and denying any safe havens for militants.

He also welcomed ongoing diplomatic engagements, saying Pakistan’s progress and global respect depended on internal unity.

“The country cannot move forward by reconciling others if we remain divided at home,” he said, adding that only adversaries would be displeased with Pakistan’s diplomatic successes.