Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder and former prime minister Imran Khan has directed his party to boycott the upcoming by-elections and resign from all parliamentary committees, terming participation as an endorsement of “unlawful disqualifications and selective justice.”
The instructions were conveyed during a meeting at Adiala Jail with his sisters Aleema Khan and Uzma Khan, along with senior party leaders Barrister Gohar Ali Khan, Salman Akram Raja, and Barrister Ali Zafar.
Read more: PTI Chief Dives into History and Politics Behind Bars
Speaking to the media after the meeting, Aleema Khan quoted Imran as saying that contesting the by polls would legitimize injustices faced by PTI. She added that he reiterated his resolve not to compromise, declaring, “I will not bow down, nor will I make any deal.”
Aleema further revealed that Imran criticized state-controlled media, denounced the forced repatriation of Afghan refugees as un-Islamic, and expressed sorrow over flood damage in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa. He also highlighted the long-term importance of the “Billion Tree Tsunami” project.
She confirmed that while Imran’s health was stable, he was experiencing eye issues and a medical examination request had been submitted to the court.
On personal grievances, Aleema and Uzma condemned the arrests of their sons Shershah and Shahrez, calling the move “an act of fear.”
Read more: Imran Khan Tops Rare ICC Knockout List
Meanwhile, Salman Akram Raja clarified that his resignation had not been accepted by Imran, who instructed him to continue his role as legal advisor. He also dismissed reports of internal rifts within PTI.
Barrister Gohar Ali Khan later told reporters that the party’s political committee would finalize its strategy on by-elections, while also announcing plans for a major public rally in September to demand judicial independence and Imran Khan’s release.
Despite solitary confinement, party leaders described Imran as composed and actively engaged in political strategy discussions.
