Gandapur Confirms Progress on Imran Khan’s Transfer, Says Matters Near Resolution
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur has stated that efforts are underway for the transfer of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Founder Imran Khan from Adiala Jail. He emphasized that he has documented everything clearly, adding that if the opposing side withdraws now, it would indicate a retreat from their commitments.
Speaking on Samaa TV’s program Nadeem Malik Live, Gandapur revealed that a delegation will be sent to Afghanistan this month for discussions, with all decisions being made in coordination with the federal government. He stressed that any steps forward would be taken with the approval of the Centre and relevant institutions.
During his meeting with the army chief, Gandapur advocated for inclusive political dialogue, emphasizing that representatives from all parties were present. He highlighted that countering terrorism requires public cooperation, and the army chief advised them to engage with the federal government.
“I am working towards political stability because, without it, the country cannot progress,” Gandapur asserted.
Read More: IHC Directs Meeting Between Imran Khan and PTI Leadership
November 26 PTI Protests: Gandapur Alleges Firing on Protesters
Addressing the events of November 26, 2024, Gandapur claimed that PTI protesters were deliberately targeted with gunfire on government orders. He insisted that those responsible for the shooting must be held accountable.
He further stated that the prime minister was informed of PTI’s evidence regarding the November 26 events, prompting Ishaq Dar to propose discussing the formation of a commission to investigate the incidents.
Gandapur also mentioned that PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar and Barrister Saif had communicated with the establishment regarding shifting the November 26 protests to Sangjani. However, he maintained that any decision on the matter required Imran Khan’s approval.
Imran Khan’s Possible Transfer from Jail
The KP chief minister disclosed that PTI’s formal engagements with influential decision-makers began after October 4. He noted that discussions had included the possibility of relocating Imran Khan to a different location for backchannel talks, but Khan insisted on securing the release of his detained workers before considering a transfer.
He added that proposals had been made to move Imran Khan to Nathia Gali or the KP Chief Minister’s House, though Khan preferred discussions to be held within jail.
Gandapur claimed that prior to November 26, 80% of the arrangements for Imran Khan’s transfer had been finalized, and progress had reached 99% since then. He assured that discussions were still ongoing and that several individuals, including himself, were actively working on the matter.
“I will continue to meet with both the PTI founder and the establishment to resolve the remaining issues. However, the frequency of meetings has slightly decreased. Now, I have made everything clear, and if the other side steps back, it will mean they are going back on their word,” he stressed.
Clarifies Bushra Bibi’s Safety and PTI Leadership Changes
Gandapur also addressed concerns regarding Bushra Bibi’s safety during the November 26 protests, denying that he had left her unprotected. He stated that he had briefly stepped away to clear the route and was one of the last people to leave D-Chowk alongside her.
“If Bushra Bibi claims I left her alone, I will issue another statement. Had anything happened to her, how would I have faced the entire province?” he remarked.
Regarding Imran Khan’s letter to the army chief, Gandapur welcomed it as a positive development, awaiting a response from General Asim Munir.
He dismissed allegations of factionalism within PTI, clarifying that while Khan removed him as PTI’s KP president, he had no objections. He also clarified that Shakeel Khan was removed based on the findings of a committee formed by Khan himself.
Additionally, Gandapur mentioned that an investigation has been launched into the wheat procurement conducted during the caretaker government’s tenure.
