Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Founder Imran Khan has criticized Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur for making inappropriate comments about journalists during a public rally in Islamabad on September 8.
Speaking informally with journalists at Adiala Jail on Thursday, Imran Khan distanced himself from Gandapur's comments, stating that while there are both good and bad people in every profession, it does not mean all are bad.
“Ali Amin Gandapur should not have made such remarks,” Imran Khan said, expressing his disapproval of the language used by the chief minister. He said that Ali Amin Gandapur probably spoke a bit too much in his passion. He emphasized his respect for journalists, noting that they are working under immense pressure, and likened their efforts to “jihad” for truth and democracy.
Journalists present during the informal conversation reminded Imran Khan of his previous support for Gandapur’s speech. The former prime minister clarified that he was unaware of any remarks directed at journalists at the time.
During the September 8 public meeting in Islamabad, Chief Minister Gandapur had used allegedly inappropriate language about journalists, leading to widespread protests by the media community. PTI leaders, including Barrister Gohar and Asad Qaiser, later apologized for Gandapur’s behaviour, though journalists demanded an apology directly from Gandapur himself.
Imran Khan also attributed his and his wife Bushra Bibi’s incarceration to Judge Humayun Dilawar, about whom he alleged that whichever judge decides against them is honoured. According to Khan, land worth billions was gifted to Dilawar, with the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Anti-Corruption Department holding all the evidence. However, the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) has now filed a case against KP Anti-Corruption.
Imran Khan also condemned Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, claiming that he was appointed to the office only because he oppressed the PTI. He accused Naqvi of doing the “most injustice”.
Imran Khan reiterated his commitment to fighting for democracy, calling on the nation to mobilize and join the PTI in a street movement aimed at saving Pakistan’s freedom. “Our movement is jihad for democracy,” he said, urging citizens to demand the rule of law, which he claimed has deteriorated and resulted in a lack of investment in the country.
Imran Khan warned that the Supreme Court, the last remaining institution of justice, is now also under attack.
