Khan’s freedom a priority, but not through deals: PTI negotiator

Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) – the main opposition party in Pakistan – on Thursday reiterated its demand for the release of its chairman, Imran Khan, and a judicial probe into the events of May 9, 2023, and November 26, 2024.

Sahibzada Hamid Raza, chairman of the Sunni Ittehad Council and a member of PTI's negotiation team, spoke after meeting the incarcerated leader at Adiala Jail. He emphasized that any agreement for Khan’s release must align with the law and Constitution.

“We want freedom for Imran Khan but not through a deal,” Raza said. “Imran Khan is ready to forgive all atrocities against him.”

The meeting marked the first between PTI’s negotiation team and Khan since talks with the government began. The team included Raza, KP Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur, Salman Akram Raja, Omar Ayub, Allama Raja Nasir, Asad Qaiser, and Faisal Chaudhry.

Key demands and allegations

Raza outlined the PTI’s demands, which include the release of political prisoners and CCTV footage from the May 9 incidents. He accused authorities of using military courts to try civilians.

“Bullets were fired on the November 26 protest, killing 13 workers, while 168 are still missing,” Raza said. “We aim to conclude negotiations with the government by January 31.”

Omar Ayub, speaking to media outside Adiala Jail, condemned the use of military courts. “Parliament, provincial governments, and the Constitution represent the state. Military institutions cannot perform the judiciary’s role,” he said.

Imran Khan’s statement

Khan, in a statement on X, said, “2025 will be the year of true freedom. I’ve been offered deals, including house arrest, but I won’t accept them.”

He urged overseas Pakistanis to join a remittance boycott campaign unless talks result in positive outcomes.

“The trials related to May 9 must be transparent, and video evidence should be released,” Khan said, adding that Pakistan faces severe international criticism over the military court trials.

Khan also criticized the government’s approach to Afghanistan. “Bombing and forced repatriation have increased hatred, jeopardizing regional peace,” he said.

He accused former army chief General Bajwa of prioritizing personal expansion plans over national interests.

Negotiation prospects

While Raza expressed optimism about the talks, he maintained that PTI would not compromise on its demands for justice and the rule of law.