Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Chairman Imran Khan announced that his party’s leadership committee will negotiate with the “handlers” exclusively on three key demands:
- Repeal of the 26th Constitutional Amendment and restoration of the Constitution.
- Restoration of the PTI’s mandate.
- Release of all innocent political prisoners.
In a message shared on social media and during discussions with his lawyers and reporters at Adiala Jail, Imran reiterated PTI’s readiness to negotiate for the country’s sake but emphasized these demands as non-negotiable.
November 24 Protest: A Test of Commitment
Imran reaffirmed that the protest scheduled for November 24 would neither be postponed nor suspended. Addressing PTI members, he urged a peaceful yet robust turnout, warning that anyone failing to participate would lose their place in the party. He characterized the protest as a decisive moment for Pakistan, calling it a “golden opportunity” to secure genuine freedom.
He stressed that the PTI has become a revolutionary movement, driven by ideology, and criticized what he termed the “politics of electables” that dominated for decades. He encouraged overseas Pakistanis to support the cause by organizing protests in their respective countries and contributing to PTI’s fundraising efforts.
Negotiations with the Establishment
Imran’s sister, Aleema Khan, revealed that the PTI leadership committee, including Barrister Gohar Ali Khan and Ali Amin Gandapur, had sought his permission to engage in talks with the establishment. Imran approved the proposal, reiterating that political parties must remain open to dialogue but emphasized that meaningful discussions should be held with those holding actual authority.
Aleema further noted that if the demands were met, the November 24 protest could turn into a celebration.
Allegations of Repression and Media Censorship
Imran accused the government of suppressing dissent, citing media censorship and internet disruptions that he claimed had cost the economy Rs. 550 billion. He also highlighted the plight of PTI workers subjected to enforced disappearances and legal persecution.
The PTI chairman criticized delays in elections and alleged interference by the establishment, stating that democracy and judicial independence are under severe threat.
Government Response: Unrealistic Demands
Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) Senator Irfan Siddiqui dismissed PTI’s demands as impractical, particularly the repeal of the 26th Amendment and the call to drop legal cases. He suggested PTI is seeking an escape route from its protest plans, labeling the demands as “non-starters.”
Siddiqui defended the government’s stance, stating that PTI leaders, including Imran Khan, are facing legitimate legal cases and are not victims of political vendettas.
Heightened Security
Ahead of the November 24 protest, additional security measures have been implemented in Rawalpindi and Islamabad. These precautions include reinforced deployments around Adiala Jail, where Imran Khan is incarcerated, and other sensitive locations.
PTI’s Next Moves
Imran’s pending bail application in the Toshakhana-II case could determine whether he personally leads the protest. Meanwhile, preparations for November 24 are intensifying, with party leaders mobilizing supporters across constituencies.
As the political standoff continues, all eyes are on the protest and potential outcomes of any last-minute negotiations.
