Imran Khan rules out any deal, Barrister Gauhar

Former prime minister and Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan has categorically ruled out the possibility of any secret deal or compromise for his release. Speaking through PTI chairman Barrister Gauhar Ali Khan, Khan made it clear that he stands by his principles and is committed to the democratic process, even if he is in detention.

No deal, no compromise.

Speaking to the media outside Adiala Jail, Barrister Gauhar conveyed Khan’s unwavering stance: “Imran Khan has clearly said that he has neither asked for nor will accept any deal. He will not compromise on his political struggle.” According to Gauhar, Khan has refused to leave Pakistan under any circumstances, indicating that exile is not an option either.

The former prime minister believes that any attempt at a “deal” undermines the democratic system and serves only short-term interests at the expense of national integrity. His message, as conveyed by Gohar, is that Pakistan needs a transparent political path, not closed-door negotiations or elite arrangements that sideline public representation.

Time-bound negotiations, not secret negotiations.

While Khan has ruled out secret deals, he has not completely closed the door to talks. Instead, he has called for structured, transparent and timely negotiations with the current government and state institutions.

“He is in favour of negotiations but only those that lead to meaningful results within a given time frame,” Gohar said. There is no point in sitting at the table without a deadline; the nation cannot afford more delaying tactics.

According to the PTI leadership, the party founder believes that the political crisis Pakistan is currently facing can only be resolved through serious, open negotiations focused on national interest, not vested interests.

Charter of Demands: Conditions for Dialogue

PTI had earlier shared a detailed ‘Charter of Demands’ with the government. These demands include:

Formation of two judicial commissions – one to investigate the events of May 9, 2023, and the other to review the political persecution faced by PTI workers and leaders.

Release of all political prisoners, including party leaders and supporters.

Assurance of a fair, transparent and inclusive political process.

When these demands were not met within the stipulated time, especially the formation of a judicial commission within seven days, Imran Khan decided to suspend further talks, citing a lack of seriousness on the part of the government.

Commitment to constitutionalism

Gohar reiterated that PTI is committed to democracy, constitutionalism and a legal path to political solutions. We want political solutions to political issues, PTI has always respected the judiciary and the constitution and we demand the same from those in power.

He stressed that PTI has not set any “preconditions” for talks but has only presented legitimate, legal expectations that must be respected if talks are to move forward.

Message to the nation

Imran Khan, despite being imprisoned, continues to command the loyalty of millions and is a key figure in Pakistan’s political landscape. By refusing any kind of backdoor deal, he has sent a clear message that Pakistan’s future should be decided in the light of day, not through hidden agreements.

The PTI leadership hopes that the government will understand the fragility of the situation and come to the table with sincerity, transparency and a sense of national responsibility. Imran Khan’s message is clear: Pakistan’s future does not lie in compromise, but in constitutional justice and the will of the people.