According to the Dawn News, Information Minister Attaullah Tarar on Thursday dismissed media reports suggesting a “deal” between the government and jailed Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan, calling such claims “entirely false and misleading.”
“There is neither any deal nor any leniency for Imran Khan,” Tarar said in a statement shared on X, emphasizing that the former prime minister, convicted in multiple corruption cases, would face no special treatment.
Imran Khan, imprisoned since August 2023 at Rawalpindi’s Adiala Jail, is serving a 14-year sentence in a £190 million corruption case and has other convictions relating to state gifts. He is also facing pending trials under the Anti-Terrorism Act connected to the May 9, 2023, protests.
Tarar’s clarification comes after statements by Prime Minister’s Adviser on Political Affairs Rana Sanaullah, who said two separate efforts were made to reach a resolution with Imran Khan, but the PTI leader “was not ready for any deal.” Sanaullah described Imran as having a “non-political attitude” and “stubborn,” adding that the government could not meet the demands presented.
Parliamentary Secretary Barrister Danyal Chaudhry also denied any negotiation, stating that while the government was open to talks, it would not accept “blackmail” and that the only reason for allowing Imran’s travel abroad would be urgent medical treatment. This follows PTI concerns over the ex-premier’s health, including partial vision loss in his right eye.
The government’s firm denial underscores its position of treating Imran Khan strictly as a convicted criminal, rejecting any notion of leniency or political compromise.