ISLAMABAD (MNN); The Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf announced on Wednesday that it will organise a national conference later this month, during which the party plans to unveil a comprehensive national agenda.
The announcement comes days after ISPR Director General Lt Gen Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry strongly criticised Imran Khan for promoting what he termed an “anti-army narrative,” calling it a national security concern rather than a political issue.
Since the presser, sharp exchanges have continued between leaders of the ruling PML-N and PTI. Defence Minister Khawaja Asif accused Imran of using harsh language against political opponents in the past and argued that PTI had no grounds to object to the military spokesman’s remarks. PTI, however, condemned the ISPR DG’s statements as “ridiculous,” insisting Imran Khan was “not a security threat.”
PTI leader Asad Qaiser made the announcement following a meeting of the party’s parliamentary group at the Parliament House. Speaking to reporters, he said the conference would be held on December 20 and 21.
When asked about its purpose, Qaiser said the country was facing deep instability and uncertainty, and the Tehreek-i-Tahafuz-i-Ayin-i-Pakistan (TTAP) felt it was their responsibility, as an opposition alliance, to bring political parties, bar associations, civil society, media and other stakeholders together to discuss solutions.
He added that tensions along Pakistan’s borders and declining commercial activity, especially in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, were major concerns. “Multinational companies are leaving Pakistan. TTAP is the only platform that can send a message that matters can still be improved. At the conference, we will present solutions to the current challenges and outline a path forward,” he said.
Earlier this week, PTI maintained that excluding its founder from politics would only harm the democratic process. Last week, Barrister Gohar had also called for lowering political temperatures to help break the deadlock.
However, Information Minister Attaullah Tarar reiterated that the government would not negotiate with PTI. If talks were ever held, he said, they would take place in parliament and without Imran Khan.
Since Imran’s imprisonment in multiple cases, PTI’s relationship with both the government and the establishment has worsened, resulting in frequent protests that have at times turned violent amid state crackdowns.
