ISLAMABAD: In a firm directive underscoring his grip over party affairs, former prime minister Imran Khan has categorically barred PTI leaders from reaching out to the “powers that be,” declaring that any engagement must be held with him directly. The message was conveyed by his sister Aleema Khan during a media interaction outside Adiala Jail, where the PTI founder remains incarcerated.
Aleema stressed that Imran Khan does not want any parallel channels or individual bargaining by party leaders. “If there are to be talks, they will be with Imran Khan himself,” she said, making it clear that the former premier aims to centralise all negotiations through his own authority.
She also addressed the ongoing Toshakhana-2 case, claiming that the primary witness had been discredited and that documentation of state gifts had already been verified by former military secretaries Brig Ahmed and Col Rehan. Despite this, she criticised the court for continuing to record statements from investigating officers rather than moving towards closure. According to her, the case could be wrapped up within the next two to three hearings.
On the Al-Qadir Trust case, Aleema noted that after ten months of delay, the matter is finally set for hearing on September 25, expressing confidence that bail will be granted to Imran Khan.
Turning to politics, Aleema urged PTI workers to mobilise for the upcoming September 27 rally in Peshawar, stressing that Khan has instructed senior leaders Junaid Akbar and Ali Amin Gandapur to ensure the event’s success.
The statement reinforces Imran Khan’s strategy of refusing indirect negotiations and signals his determination to remain the only decision-maker within PTI, even from behind bars. It also sets the stage for a tense political showdown in the days ahead as court battles and street politics continue to converge.
This story has been reported by PakTribune. All rights reserved.