SWAT: Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf Chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan on Saturday called for judicial independence, rule of law and an end to what he described as political victimisation.

Talking to reporters in Buner, he said that PTI had always strived for an independent judiciary and the supremacy of the Constitution and law. He maintained that no society could achieve development and stability without justice.

Members of the Insaf Lawyers Forum were also present on this occasion.

Barrister Khan said that his party believed in resolving political differences through dialogue and democratic means.

He added that PTI had consistently advocated negotiations despite the “theft of its electoral mandate” and the denial of its seats.

The PTI chairman said that access to party founder Imran Khan, including meetings with his personal physician and family members, remained their foremost demand.

He alleged that court orders issued in Imran Khan’s favour were not being implemented, adding that the Supreme Court’s Aug 18 ruling was still awaiting implementation.

Describing political isolation and what he termed “political apartheid” as harmful to democracy, Barrister Khan expressed concern over the alleged illegal detention of political leaders.

He claimed that the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa chief minister and the provincial assembly speaker were being held in unlawful confinement. He said that the whereabouts of PTI leaders Junaid Akbar and Dr Amjad remained unknown following their alleged abduction.

Referring to a habeas corpus petition, he said the Peshawar High Court had directed that the matter be placed before a larger bench. He also expressed concern over an order issued by the Federal Constitutional Court on Nov 5.

The PTI chairman said keeping individuals in custody despite the grant of bail amounted to a miscarriage of justice. He added that imprisoning people to serve personal interests and egos posed a serious threat to democracy and fundamental human rights.

Emphasising that the country was passing through a critical phase, he urged all stakeholders to act responsibly and exercise restraint.

“We should take one step back, act with wisdom and reason, and ensure that justice is provided to us,” he said.

Published in Dawn, November 8th, 2026