Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leader Shahid Khattak Tuesday said that sustainable economic improvement in the country is not possible without political stability, while criticising the current government’s legitimacy and performance.
Speaking to the media at the Gorakhpur factory checkpoint, Khattak asserted that political activity strengthens democracy rather than weakening it. He described the present setup as a “product of Form 47,” reiterating PTI’s stance that genuine public mandate is essential to resolve the country’s challenges.
Khattak drew comparisons with PTI’s tenure, claiming that petrol prices ranged between Rs115 and Rs120 per litre at the time, whereas they have now surged significantly, placing a heavy burden on citizens. He added that sugar prices have also risen sharply, exacerbating economic hardship for the public.
Referring to recent political mobilisation, he said the Mardan public gathering demonstrated that PTI supporters are “more united than before,” indicating growing political momentum for the party.
On the condition of PTI founder Imran Khan, Khattak expressed concern over the lack of clarity regarding his reported eye treatment. He also said questions would be raised about the medical procedure of Bushra Bibi.
“If the founder is unpopular, then release him so the truth becomes clear,” Khattak said, adding that the prolonged isolation of Imran Khan has raised serious reservations within the party.
He emphasised that decisions within PTI are made through consultation rather than by a single individual, noting that the postponement of the Rawalpindi rally was also decided collectively. “Despite differences of opinion, the entire party stands united on final decisions,” he said.
Khattak said the “political temperature” in the country has risen, with PTI continuing to exert pressure on the government through its political activities.