No External Pressure on Imran Khan’s Release, Says Sanaullah
ISLAMABAD:
Prime Minister’s Adviser on Political Affairs, Rana Sanaullah, has firmly stated that there is no external pressure on the government regarding the release of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) chairman Imran Khan, other than the statements made by the PTI leader himself.
In a press conference on Wednesday, Sanaullah denied any offer to move the former prime minister from Adiala Jail in Rawalpindi to his Banigala residence, clarifying that such a proposal had never been extended by the government.
He emphasized that the only pressure regarding Imran Khan’s release was stemming from the PTI founder’s own statements and added that no message or request had been received from any parties supporting his release.
Sanaullah also dismissed claims that the government had ever offered to transfer Imran Khan to Banigala. Referring to comments made by Ali Amin Gandapur, he stated, “If Gandapur has said something, that’s his view — the government has not made such an offer.”
On the ongoing negotiations, the adviser explained that the government’s committee had included all its allies and had asked PTI to submit written demands. He acknowledged PTI’s complaint about the improper conduct of their meeting with Imran Khan and assured that they would facilitate a proper discussion if needed. However, he expressed doubt that written demands would be forthcoming from PTI.
Sanaullah also commented on the actions of those close to Imran Khan, pointing out that some PTI representatives appeared willing to take extreme steps. He referred to a conversation involving Imran Khan’s sister, Aleema Khan, and a social media operator, in which Aleema Khan reportedly advised against discussing jail privileges to protect the party’s narrative. He suggested this was part of a deliberate attempt to create the impression that Imran Khan was being treated unjustly.
He also criticized internal conflicts within PTI, stating that such infighting was evident and questioning what could be expected from a party in such turmoil. He noted PTI’s past manipulation of events, including false claims about the Nankana Sahib incident and misleading social media posts about Palestinian tragedies.
Sanaullah further emphasized that, to this day, there had been no reports of harm from the alleged D-Chowk incidents, and no police reports had been filed on the matter, undermining PTI’s claims.
On the country’s economic situation, the minister expressed optimism, stating that Pakistan’s economy was improving and that the nation would soon emerge as a stronger economic power. He accused PTI of working against political stability in Pakistan.
Sanaullah also addressed issues with the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), acknowledging that some concerns had been addressed through dialogue at the Punjab Governor House. While he claimed that the major issues with PPP had been resolved, he noted that the party’s leadership continued to make statements for political gain. He assured that all decisions in the current government were made with PPP’s full involvement.
NA Speaker Defends His Role
National Assembly Speaker Sardar Ayaz Sadiq, in response to criticism from PTI leaders, stated on Wednesday that arranging a meeting between the government and PTI was neither his responsibility nor mandate. He defended himself against what he described as unjust criticism.
Sadiq expressed frustration over the accusations, asserting, “I have been unfairly criticized for not arranging a meeting with Imran Khan.” He also addressed calls for him to step away from the negotiations, offering to consider the proposal.
Refuting claims that his absence abroad hindered his ability to facilitate meetings, Sadiq remarked, “Being abroad does not mean I cannot arrange a meeting. My doors are always open to everyone.”
He concluded by saying, “When both the government and opposition agree, I will immediately facilitate a meeting.”
