Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur strongly condemned the federal and Punjab governments on Tuesday. He accused them of bad treatment Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan, who remains in Adiala Jail. Gandapur’s statements came in response to PTI leader Aleema Khan’s complaints about Khan’s jail conditions.
In a video released on PTI’s official social media account, Gandapur called out both the federal and Punjab authorities. “The federal and Punjab governments have adopted the worst attitude towards the PTI founder,” he said. He cited restricted access for family and party members as a sign of alleged mistreatment.
Aleema Khan, Imran Khan’s sister, recently highlighted issues with her brother’s jail conditions. She reported that he was provided unhygienic food, which caused health concerns. She also claimed that power to Khan’s cell had been disconnected since early October, further raising concerns about his treatment in custody.
“Prepare for Nationwide Shutdown”
Gandapur warned that PTI would take action if the mistreatment continued. “We have to get rid of this government by shutting down the whole of Pakistan,” he stated. According to him, PTI has a plan in place to protest on a national scale. The KP chief minister urged the public to stay prepared for what he referred to as “the party’s next step.”
Gandapur’s words suggest that PTI is willing to escalate protests if their demands are not met. He referenced the party’s history of protests, including the previous D-Chowk demonstrations, as a reminder of PTI’s ability to mobilize the public.
Defectors Accused of Treachery
In the video, Gandapur also spoke against PTI members who allegedly defected following the 26th Constitutional Amendment. He accused them of betrayal, stating, “Those who betrayed Imran Khan, whether for money or cowardice, will go down in history as traitors.” Gandapur emphasized that there would be “no exceptions” for such individuals, warning that they “won’t be spared.”
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This message is part of Gandapur’s strategy to unify party supporters and discourage further defections. PTI’s leadership has repeatedly addressed concerns over loyalty within the party ranks since Khan’s imprisonment.
PTI leaders within KP are concerned that Gandapur’s intense stance may lead to governor’s rule in the province. PTI lawmaker Sher Afzal Marwat recently expressed fears that the chief minister’s fiery rhetoric could provide the opposition with grounds to push for greater federal control.
“[They] are giving the opponents a reason to end what remains of the provincial government,” Marwat warned, emphasizing the delicate political balance in KP.
PTI’s Health Concerns for Imran Khan
The party remains concerned about Imran Khan’s health, though PTI Chairman Gohar Khan previously assured the public of Khan’s well-being. Earlier this month, a team from the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences visited Khan in jail and confirmed his “good health.” Despite these assurances, PTI continues to express anxiety over Khan’s situation in Adiala Jail.
PTI’s recent statements highlight its readiness to challenge the government through protests. With Gandapur leading the charge in KP, PTI plans to mount increasing pressure on both the federal and Punjab governments. As the party prepares its next move, Pakistan’s political landscape remains tense, with the potential for further protests and unrest.
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