PTI Warns of New Path After By-Election Setback

PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan expressed deep concern over the PTI by-election setback during a media talk outside Adiala Jail. He said the party’s mandate was once again ignored, which created serious doubts about the fairness of the process. He warned that if this trend continues, PTI may consider “another path.”

PTI Questions Mandate and Electoral Conduct

Gohar said PTI would not have contested the by-polls had the party known its mandate would be dismissed again. The party lost its Haripur seat, which he claimed PTI had led by 27,000 votes at every polling station. He alleged that the “won seat” was deliberately withheld. However, he added that PTI would not react with aggression or step outside the law.
He noted growing concerns in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and other areas, where workers feel “someone else’s control is prevailing.” He called this situation unjust and harmful to Pakistan’s democratic progression. He warned that public frustration will rise if such actions continue without accountability.

Calls for Fair Treatment and Democratic Space

Gohar criticised authorities for not allowing PTI’s meetings despite court orders. He said the last approved meeting took place on November 4. He stated that PTI will continue to follow directions from party founder Imran Khan. He described the treatment toward PTI as “unlawful and unconstitutional.”
He added that PTI depends on public support, not videos or narratives. He warned that “this setup will not survive” if it relies solely on amendments without democratic legitimacy. He reaffirmed that democracy must prevail and announced a prayer gathering in Peshawar on November 26 to highlight the party’s stance after the PTI by-election setback.