Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur has issued a stark warning to the federal and Punjab governments, stating that the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party may initiate a nationwide shutdown if its founder, Imran Khan, continues to be mistreated in Adiala Jail.
In a video shared on October 28, Gandapur highlighted recent complaints made by Khan’s sister, Aleema Khan, regarding her brother’s poor conditions in prison. She alleged that he has been receiving unsanitary food, leading to health issues, and that power has been disconnected from his cell since October 3.
Gandapur condemned the federal and Punjab governments for their treatment of Khan, describing it as “the worst attitude” toward the PTI founder. He urged the public to be prepared, claiming that the current government’s days are numbered.
He stated, “We must rid ourselves of this government by shutting down the entire country and reclaiming the stolen mandate,” warning that the next phase of their protests would escalate significantly.
Additionally, he criticized party members who have defected, declaring that those who betrayed Khan for financial gain or out of cowardice would be remembered as traitors and would face consequences.
Gandapur’s fiery remarks come as he leads PTI’s protests against Khan’s prolonged imprisonment, raising concerns among some party leaders about the potential for governor’s rule in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Recently, PTI leader Sher Afzal Marwat expressed worries that Gandapur’s aggressive stance could give opponents the justification needed to challenge the provincial government’s authority.
Despite ongoing concerns for Khan’s health, PTI Chairman Gohar Khan confirmed earlier this month that he is in “good health” following a medical examination by doctors from the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences.