Imran Khan urges PTI to continue talks despite limited jail access

Pakistan's incarcerated opposition leader and former Prime Minister Imran Khan has directed his party, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), to continue negotiations with the government even if further prison meetings with him are denied, the party’s chairperson Barrister Gohar Ali Khan said Wednesday.

“The PTI founder said a third round of negotiations should definitely take place,” Gohar told reporters after meeting Khan at Adiala Jail. “If the committee meeting isn’t allowed, at least one negotiation session should be held.”

However, Khan emphasized that ongoing access to him remains essential for long-term dialogue. “If meetings aren’t arranged after this, negotiations cannot proceed,” Gohar quoted him as saying.

Khan approved submitting the party’s demands in writing, including a judicial commission to investigate the May 9, 2023, and November 26, 2024, incidents, and the release of political prisoners, Gohar added.

Daily hearings in GHQ attack case

Separately, Anti-Terrorism Court Judge Amjad Ali Shah ordered daily hearings in the May 9 GHQ attack case starting January 13, 2025. The decision followed a prosecution request during proceedings at the Adiala Jail courtroom.

The court formally charged 118 of the 119 accused, separating one defendant’s case from the main proceedings. The judge also granted several requests from Khan, including phone calls with his children, access to newspapers, television, and his personal physician.

Toshakhana 2.0 case progress

In the Toshakhana 2.0 corruption case, Deputy Director Protocol Talat Mehmood testified against Khan and his wife Bushra Bibi. Defense lawyers cross-examined three of five prosecution witnesses, with two more scheduled for January 10. The court rejected a defense adjournment request, citing the presence of other lawyers.

Deal speculation denied

Addressing rumors of a potential deal, Gohar said Khan “dispelled any impression of a deal.” He added that prior to November 24, “good contact” existed, but discussions didn’t advance. “Neither [Interior Minister] Mohsin Naqvi nor anyone else ever mentioned the founder’s release,” he said.

Khan reiterated his firm stance on foreign interference. “We have said ‘absolutely not’ to America before and will continue to say it to anyone who interferes with national security or sovereignty,” Gohar quoted him.