Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Chairman Barrister Gohar Ali on Saturday emphasised that national defence holds top priority and said the party’s stance has never been, and will never be, against the state. Speaking to the media, the PTI chairman expressed disappointment over recent statements made in a press conference, saying he had always hoped for reduced tensions and improved relations between institutions and political stakeholders.

“It is unfortunate when state institutions and political figures label each other as mentally unstable or a threat,” he remarked. Barrister Gohar Ali stressed that Pakistan belongs to everyone, and the armed forces are equally respected. “Pakistan is ours and the army is ours. We have demonstrated this in practice and will continue to do so,” he said. He urged all sides to accept each other, create space, and eliminate the persistent trust deficit.

Calling for restraint and reconciliation, he appealed to all democratic forces to play their role in lowering tensions. “This is the time to move forward through dialogue, not confrontation,” he said. The PTI chairman also pointed towards the role of individuals who, despite not being stakeholders, have contributed to the strain between the party and state institutions.

He said that the founder of PTI and Bushra Bibi are currently in jail, adding that allowing meetings with them could help improve the situation. “The country cannot afford further tension and chaos,” Barrister Gohar warned, urging all sides to prioritise national unity and stability.

Credit: Independent News Pakistan (INP)