ISLAMABAD: A prominent property tycoon, currently residing outside Pakistan, has reportedly sent a message to jailed PTI founder Imran Khan, urging him to trust Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi despite their past political differences.
According to an informed source, the message was also conveyed to Bushra Bibi, Imran’s wife. Both Imran and Bushra are aware that Naqvi—who is considered close to the military establishment—has been facilitating PTI leaders behind the scenes. However, despite these efforts, Imran Khan has remained vocal in his criticism of Naqvi.
Naqvi’s Role in Backchannel Talks
The source further revealed that Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur and PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan—both of whom have been involved in backchannel political negotiations—are also aware of Naqvi’s role in facilitating discussions. Gandapur and Gohar had reportedly briefed Khan about Naqvi’s “positive” contributions, but Khan has so far refused to reconsider his position.
At one stage, the property tycoon personally urged Khan to trust Naqvi, emphasizing the interior minister’s involvement in easing political tensions. However, despite these reassurances, Khan continued to publicly target Naqvi, particularly criticizing his role in governance and security matters.
Khan’s Longstanding Criticism of Naqvi
Khan’s distrust of Naqvi dates back to his appointment as Punjab’s caretaker chief minister, a position Khan claimed was used to undermine PTI during the general elections. The former prime minister has also opposed Naqvi’s appointment as chairman of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), accusing him of favoritism and political maneuvering.
In June 2024, following Pakistan’s disappointing performance in international cricket, Naqvi hinted at major team changes, prompting Khan to once again criticize him.
During an informal conversation with journalists at Adiala Jail, Khan accused Naqvi of benefiting from political favoritism, while questioning the government’s failure to address pressing security issues.
“Our soldiers are being martyred, and robberies are happening in Islamabad, yet they do not care,” Khan remarked, adding, “Mohsin Naqvi is the biggest beneficiary of favoritism.”
Despite growing political maneuvering behind the scenes, it remains unclear whether Imran Khan will soften his stance on Mohsin Naqvi or continue to challenge his role in governance.
