PTI Founder’s Trials Held in Jail Over Security Concerns, Says Rana Sanaullah
Adviser to the Prime Minister on Political Affairs, Rana Sanaullah, has suggested the possibility of relocating Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan if health or security issues arise. Speaking on Thursday, the senior Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) leader clarified that holding Khan’s trials within the jail premises was a security measure.
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“If he is brought to the anti-terrorism or high court complexes, it could pose significant risks,” Sanaullah explained, noting that this decision faced no opposition. He added that while special arrangements could be made if necessary, no such plans are currently under discussion.
Negotiations with PTI
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur confirmed progress in government-PTI negotiations. He attributed delays to National Assembly Speaker Ayaz Sadiq’s recent absence from the country. With Sadiq’s return, a meeting between the negotiation committee and Khan is anticipated soon, Gandapur noted.
In the interim, PTI leader Sher Afzal Marwat urged both sides to practice restraint, warning that inflammatory rhetoric could derail ongoing talks. He stressed the importance of maintaining dialogue momentum, even if direct meetings with Khan face challenges.
Key Demands and Ongoing Talks
After months of political tensions, the coalition government and PTI began negotiations last month. PTI presented initial demands, including the release of political prisoners and a judicial inquiry into the events of May 9 and November 26, 2023.
During subsequent talks chaired by National Assembly Speaker Ayaz Sadiq, PTI emphasized the need for frequent meetings with Khan to finalize their “charter of demands.” However, despite vocalizing their demands, PTI has yet to formally present them in writing.
The negotiations have reached an impasse, with PTI insisting on the formation of a judicial commission to investigate the May 9 and November 26 events. PTI has warned of a potential collapse in talks if this condition remains unmet.
