former Prime Minister and Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan disclosed that he had decided to postpone the planned Islamabad rally due to concerns about potential chaos and violence. Imran Khan’s decision to hold off on the rally stemmed from warnings he received while in jail.
He was informed that holding the rally in Islamabad could lead to widespread unrest, and the sensitive issue of Khatm-e-Nabuwwat (PBUH) had already sparked protests by religious groups in the capital.
Imran Khan, who has long been a key political figure in Pakistan, expressed that his priority was to avoid any scenario that could result in violence similar to the events of May 9. He explained that since there had been no judicial inquiry into the violence that took place on May 9, organizing another rally under such circumstances could be counterproductive. His decision was influenced by the possibility of chaos that could have emerged if the rally had gone ahead.
The PTI leader emphasized that the decision to postpone the rally was not taken lightly. He pointed out that if the government attempts to block the rally scheduled for September 8, despite previously granting permission, the responsibility for any consequences would fall squarely on the authorities. Imran Khan criticized the government for its inconsistency, stating, “This is the credibility of the courts; they grant us permission, but the administration revokes it.”
Addressing his party members, Imran Khan urged them not to tolerate any further obstacles. He stressed that this postponement would be the last, instructing the party to hold a meeting before September 8 to decide on protests against the non-implementation of the Supreme Court’s decisions. Imran Khan’s message to his supporters was clear: remain resolute and steadfast, and do not back down if attempts are made to block their planned events.
During the informal discussion, Imran Khan also responded to questions from journalists regarding his demand for an open trial of General (retd) Faiz Hameed. Imran Khan asserted that as the leader of Pakistan’s largest political party, he has consistently fought within the constitutional framework for 28 years. He maintained that if Faiz Hameed was involved in the events of May 9, an open trial should be conducted. He emphasized that this matter is of national importance and not an international secret, and transparency is crucial for upholding democratic principles.
Imran Khan also reflected on Pakistan’s political history, particularly mentioning the Hamoodur Rahman Commission report. He suggested that had the report been implemented, democracy would have flourished in Pakistan, and the country could have avoided three martial laws and the current situation, which he referred to as “undeclared martial law.” He described the May 9 incidents as an attack on democracy and called for the formation of a commission to prevent such occurrences in the future.
When a journalist questioned Imran Khan about his communication with PTI Senator Azam Swati, Khan playfully laughed off the query, refusing to reveal how he had access to a phone in jail. This lighthearted exchange highlighted Khan’s continued confidence, even in challenging circumstances.
Imran Khan was also questioned about an audio recording involving his sister, in which she claimed that Khan had not asked to postpone the rally. Acknowledging the frustration within the party, Khan admitted that many members were upset with the decision to postpone the event. He personally believed that the rally should have proceeded as planned. However, he reassured party members that rallies would continue to be held in every district, emphasizing that this postponement was a strategic move to avoid unnecessary violence and chaos.
Khan clarified that there had been no discussions with the government regarding the rally, but the decision to delay was made purely to prevent potential unrest. He reiterated his earlier point that while the courts grant PTI permission to hold rallies, the administration often cancels the necessary NOCs (No Objection Certificates). Imran Khan emphasized that PTI is the only party in the country that consistently faces such hurdles when attempting to organize rallies in Islamabad.
Despite the serious nature of the discussions, Imran Khan appeared cheerful and content during the court proceedings. He was seen smiling as he received an electric toothbrush and some books, a request he had made a year ago. This small but significant moment highlighted Khan’s resilience and ability to maintain a positive outlook, even as he faces numerous challenges.
