“Imran Khan Delays Civil Disobedience Appeal”

Imran Khan Postpones Civil Disobedience Call Amidst Dialogue Prospects

RAWALPINDI: Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Chairman Imran Khan has temporarily deferred his call for a civil disobedience movement, his sister Aleema Khan revealed on Tuesday. The move comes as government officials urged the opposition to foster a conducive atmosphere for political dialogue.

Speaking to the media after visiting Imran Khan at Adiala Jail, Aleema stated that her brother had considered urging overseas Pakistanis to halt remittances if his two key demands were not addressed. These demands include a judicial inquiry into the incidents of May 9, 2023, and November 26, 2024, as well as the release of PTI workers.

“Overseas Pakistanis are ready to stop sending money, but PTI members advised Imran to hold off to prevent any harm to the country,” Aleema explained. She added that Imran was attentive to these concerns and had decided to wait a few more days before making any final decisions.

Aleema emphasized that Imran remained resolute and would not relent until his demands were met. “If the demands are ignored, Imran Khan will ask overseas Pakistanis to cease remittances to Pakistan,” she reiterated.

Earlier this month, Imran had announced a potential civil disobedience movement starting December 14 via a post on his X handle. He also formed a five-member committee to negotiate with the federal government on his demands.

However, the government dismissed the idea of negotiations under the threat of a civil disobedience movement. During a National Assembly session, Defence Minister Khawaja Asif stressed the need for PTI to withdraw its call and create a suitable environment for dialogue. “Talks cannot be held at gunpoint,” Asif remarked, calling the PTI’s negotiation committee “insincere” and highlighting the ineffectiveness of such efforts without genuine intent.

Meanwhile, PTI leader Sher Afzal Marwat called for unity and dialogue to address the nation’s challenges. He urged political forces to collaborate with clear terms of reference (TORs) to resolve the crisis. Additionally, Marwat raised security concerns in his constituency and appealed to the government to take action against lawbreakers.