Karachi: Senior leaders from both the ruling Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) and opposition Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) exchanged sharp remarks in media statements on Thursday, discussing the possible impact of Donald Trump’s victory in the US presidential election on the release of PTI founder Imran Khan.
PTI leader Zulfi Bukhari stirred controversy by claiming he would raise the issue of injustices against Imran Khan directly with Donald Trump. Speaking to the media, Bukhari stated, “I will discuss the human rights violations and the cases against Imran Khan with Trump’s team, including Ivanka Trump and Jared Kushner.” Bukhari, a close confidant of Imran Khan, further expressed hope that Trump, who has previously shown support for Imran Khan, would intervene on his behalf.
He also congratulated Trump on his historic victory, calling it a triumph for democracy and stability, which he hoped would inspire change globally, including in Pakistan. “Trump’s victory sends a clear message for real change,” Bukhari remarked.
Khawaja Asif Dismisses Possibility of US Pressure
In sharp contrast, Defence Minister Khawaja Asif dismissed the notion that Trump could have any impact on the situation. Asif responded pointedly on the social media platform ‘X,’ stating, “Some believe that a call from America would mean Imran Khan will be handed over to the callers. This is not how Pakistan operates.”
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Asif pointed to historical precedents, saying, “Nawaz Sharif was once offered $5 billion along with a call from the US, but he refused and conducted nuclear explosions.” He was referring to the 1998 incident when Pakistan conducted nuclear tests despite US pressure. Asif compared this with the actions of former military ruler Pervez Musharraf, who yielded to US demands after the September 11 attacks, agreeing to join the US-led war on terrorism.
He emphasized that Pakistan’s national interest takes precedence over foreign pressure, even from powerful countries like the US. “Musharraf gave in to US demands; Nawaz Sharif stood firm,” Asif said, suggesting that Imran Khan’s situation would not be any different.
Bukhari’s Persistence Despite Criticism
Despite Khawaja Asif’s comments, Zulfi Bukhari remained steadfast in his belief that Trump’s influence could help secure Imran Khan’s release. Bukhari mentioned that Trump has previously expressed concern over the sentencing of Imran Khan. He reiterated that he would leverage his connections with Trump’s team to highlight what he views as the unjust treatment of the PTI leader, especially following his imprisonment after his removal from office.
“We are in touch with Trump’s family, and we will keep raising our concerns,” Bukhari said, emphasizing that his aim was to ensure that Imran Khan’s case, and Pakistan’s broader human rights situation, received international attention.
Diplomatic Considerations and Pakistan-US Relations
On the other hand, Defence Minister Khawaja Asif stressed that Pakistan would not jeopardize its diplomatic relations with the US for the sake of one individual. Speaking to a private TV channel, Asif remarked, “While we maintain friendly relations with the US, we will disagree when necessary, especially on matters of national interest.” He also called for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, highlighting Pakistan’s diplomatic priorities in the context of international conflicts.
Asif’s comments underscored the complexity of Pakistan’s foreign relations, where balancing domestic politics and international diplomacy often leads to conflicting views among political leaders.
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