As the final results continued to trickle in on Saturday, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) asserted its claim to a majority in the Centre, Punjab, and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (K-P).
Tehreek-e-Insaf Chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan confidently stated that President Arif Alvi would extend an invitation to his party to form the government, given their secured majority in the National Assembly.
During a joint news conference with the party’s Central Spokesperson Raoof Hasan on Saturday, Gohar stressed the importance of respecting the public mandate. “We have no quarrel with anyone; we want to move forward. We will proceed to form a government in accordance with the constitution and the law,” he clarified.
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Taking a swipe at former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, Gohar remarked, “Nawaz Sharif does not command a majority in the NA, yet he still considers himself the prime minister.”
Gohar highlighted the significance of the day in Pakistan’s democratic history, noting that the elections were conducted freely and peacefully. He urged the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) to promptly announce all results, expressing concern over delays beyond the scheduled time.
Asserting the validity of their received results, Gohar emphasized the importance of releasing results according to Form 45. He announced plans for peaceful protests outside the offices of returning officers who had not yet announced results, warning against obstructing the PTI’s path to forming the government.
Regarding intra-party matters, Gohar stated that independent candidates were in contact with the party and would remain loyal. He dismissed the possibility of coalition with the Pakistan Peoples’ Party (PPP).
Gohar also announced plans for intra-party elections within 15 days and reiterated the PTI’s commitment to Imran Khan’s leadership. He maintained that all cases against Imran Khan were politically motivated and urged the judiciary to address the matter.
In response to questions about the next prime minister, Gohar affirmed Imran Khan’s leadership, stating that the decision rested with him. He also called for peaceful protests across Pakistan, emphasizing the workers’ right to protest peacefully.
Claiming victory on numerous fronts, Gohar announced the PTI’s success in securing a majority in various assemblies. He declared intentions to select a public-friendly chief minister for Punjab and to decide on the K-P chief minister post after consultations.
In summary, Tehreek-e-Insaf remains steadfast in its pursuit of forming governments at various levels, while emphasizing adherence to democratic principles and peaceful means of expression.
