In a significant political development, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) has decided not to back a resolution in the Pakistani Parliament that aims to counter the recent resolution passed by the US House of Representatives. PTI’s Chairman, Barrister Gohar, stated unequivocally that his party would not support any such resolution unless the government takes PTI into confidence.
PTI’s Stance on the Resolution
Barrister Gohar, while addressing the media, emphasized that PTI had neither seen the draft of the proposed resolution nor would it lend its support without prior consultation. “We have neither seen the resolution nor will we support any government resolution. If the government does not take it into confidence, we will not support any resolution,” he asserted. This statement underscores PTI’s insistence on being included in the decision-making process and its refusal to endorse government actions blindly.
International Observers and Election Integrity
Further elaborating on PTI’s position, Barrister Gohar called for transparency regarding the findings of international observers, including those from China, on the Pakistani election. He suggested that these reports should be disclosed to ensure accountability and integrity in the electoral process. This demand highlights PTI’s focus on electoral transparency and its concern over international perceptions of Pakistan’s democratic practices.
Reaction to the Iddat Case Verdict
Barrister Gohar also commented on the verdict in the Iddat case against the PTI founder, describing it as a clear instance of injustice and political revenge. “There was injustice in the Iddat case, no chance of a fair trial was given, it was a false case of political revenge,” he remarked. He further clarified that differences of opinion within PTI should not be misconstrued as a sign of internal division, asserting that there is no forward block within the party.
Government’s Response to US Resolution
The backdrop of PTI’s stance is the announcement by Foreign Minister and Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar, who declared the government’s intention to introduce a resolution in response to the US House of Representatives’ resolution on Pakistan’s general elections. Speaking in the National Assembly, Dar expressed Pakistan’s strong disapproval of the US resolution, describing it as unjustified interference in Pakistan’s internal affairs.
“We have taken notice and the draft of the resolution is ready, which will be shared with everyone,” Dar announced. He emphasized that Pakistan has officially rejected the US resolution, with the Foreign Office providing an immediate and firm response.
PTI’s Position on Pakistani-American Citizens’ Resolutions
Addressing another dimension of the issue, Barrister Gohar differentiated between resolutions brought forth by Pakistani-American citizens and official party positions. He clarified that any resolutions proposed by Pakistani-origin citizens in the US are personal initiatives and do not represent PTI’s stance. “If the American citizens of Pakistani origin give any resolution, it is not a party contribution, it is their personal matter,” he stated.
The political landscape in Pakistan is currently marked by significant tension and differing perspectives on international relations and internal governance. PTI’s refusal to support the government’s counter-resolution against the US House of Representatives underscores the party’s demand for greater involvement and transparency in the decision-making process. As the government moves forward with its plan to address the US resolution, the dynamics within Pakistan’s political framework continue to evolve, highlighting the complexities of balancing domestic and international political pressures.
