In a recent press conference, Opposition Leader Umar Ayub expressed his frustration because the prison administration did not allow him to meet the founder of PTI, as the law required. He intended to hold the meeting according to the legal provisions, but the prison administration reportedly prevented it.
Restrictions on Political Discussions
Umar Ayub revealed that the prison’s Deputy Superintendent informed them they were not permitted to engage in political discussions with the PTI founder. He also criticized Defense Minister Khawaja Asif, claiming that Asif was unaware of many significant matters and was even barred from visiting the GHQ (General Headquarters). Ayub further labeled Khawaja Asif as a nominal defense minister with little influence, suggesting that no one takes him seriously.
Legal Proceedings and the Army’s Role
Speaking to the media outside Adiala Jail, Umar Ayub, accompanied by Shibli Faraz, commented on the court-martial of Faiz Hameed, a former senior officer. He emphasized that the law will follow its course, asserting that the Director-General of ISI (Inter-Services Intelligence) cannot even appoint a peon without the approval of the Army Chief. He highlighted the subordination of the ISI to the Prime Minister but noted that it ultimately reports to the Army Chief. Ayub also called for the court-martial of officers involved in a private housing society scandal, where they allegedly took cash.
PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan’s Perspective
During a separate media interaction in Buner, PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan discussed the Faiz Hameed issue. He urged against politicizing the matter, describing it as an internal affair of the military. He reiterated PTI’s commitment to continue fighting on all fronts for the release of their founder. Gohar Ali Khan announced that a rally would be held in Islamabad on August 22. Additional rallies are planned in Lahore and Karachi.
Strengthening the Military Institution
Barrister Gohar emphasized the strength of Pakistan’s military institution, advising against exaggeration concerning the Faiz Hameed case. He firmly believed that PTI’s reserved seats in the assemblies would not be handed over to any other party under any circumstances.
Addressing Propaganda and the Party’s Agenda
Responding to deforestation allegations in Swat and Buner, Gohar Ali Khan dismissed the claims as mere social media propaganda. He asserted that PTI’s agenda remains to provide quality education and implement a nationwide unified curriculum. The chairman reiterated the party’s unwavering dedication to securing the release of the PTI founder. Emphasizing that the struggle would persist on every front.
Both Umar Ayub and Barrister Gohar Ali Khan presented strong stances on critical issues. This ranges from the legal rights of the PTI founder to the internal matters of the military. As well as PTI’s political strategy and agenda. Their remarks reflect the ongoing tensions and challenges the party faces in its current political landscape.
