Lahore – In a heartfelt appeal, PTI Chairman Imran Khan called for immediate talks between his party and state institutions to address the pressing issues and steer the country towards progress. Speaking during a live talk streamed on YouTube from his residence in Zaman Park, Lahore, Khan expressed deep concerns about the country’s current trajectory and the apathy of the ruling government towards the imminent disaster of hyperinflation.
Khan emphasized the urgency of dialogue, stating that the ongoing situation was not a solution. He accused the ruling party of hoarding looted wealth abroad while disregarding the economic hardships faced by the people. Khan also lamented his isolation, cut off from the senior leadership of his party, while witnessing the arrest of thousands of his supporters. In an interview with France 24, he highlighted the prevailing atmosphere of fear and insecurity, stating that anyone supporting the PTI was either arrested or driven underground. Concerns for his personal safety persisted, with Khan asserting that he remained at risk, having survived two assassination attempts.
The PTI Chairman made it clear that his call for dialogue should not be perceived as weakness. He stressed that the solution to the country’s problems lay in state institutions operating within their constitutional roles. Khan criticized the incumbent rulers for resorting to excessive force against PTI leaders and workers in an attempt to suppress the party. He warned that such actions would not eradicate the ideology ingrained in the country’s youth. Khan also cautioned the powers that be about the consequences of their efforts to crush the PTI, asserting that it could lead to the destruction of the nation. He denounced the rulers’ barbaric actions, stating that no political party had ever faced such brutality.
Referring to recent defections from the PTI as “forced divorces,” Khan condemned the May 9 arson attack on the Lahore Corps Commander’s house and reaffirmed his condemnation of such brazen attacks on army installations. He emphasized that weakening the institution of the army equated to weakening the country.
Despite the challenges faced by the PTI, Khan maintained a defiant tone and expressed confidence in the party’s rising popularity. He assured that the PTI would emerge victorious in any upcoming elections, as the current crackdown had only strengthened their support. Khan reiterated his desire for dialogue to resolve the country’s crisis and called upon the nation, as well as PTI leaders, workers, and supporters, to remain patient during these critical times.
Highlighting economic indicators and comparing the performance of the PDM government with his own during 2022 and 2023, Khan warned of the looming threat of hyperinflation. He cautioned that the nation would soon be burdened by rapid and excessive price rises, urging immediate action to prevent its devastating effects.
Meanwhile, PTI’s central information secretary, Farrukh Habib, criticized the ruling coalition government for inciting hatred among the masses and committing excesses against PTI leaders, workers, and supporters. Habib demanded a fair trial for all suspects and an end to inhumane treatment of those imprisoned in different jails. Stressing that the PTI represented the aspirations of the people, he reiterated the public’s demand for early elections and condemned the May 9 arson attacks on state buildings and army installations.
As the country grapples with its challenges, the outcome of the proposed talks and the future of the PTI’s political landscape remain uncertain.