Party leaders’ meeting with Imran denied despite court orders: Omar

RAWALPINDI: Opposition Leader in the National Assembly (NA) Omar Ayub Khan complained on Thursday that a PTI delegation was denied a meeting with party founder chairman Imran Khan.

Speaking to the media outside Adiala Jail, alongside former NA speaker Asad Qaiser, he expressed frustration over repeated denial of meeting with Imran Khan, despite a written court order for the purpose. “The jail superintendent had given a written statement in the court that meetings will be allowed; yet it was not happening,” he stated, accusing the authorities of violating the Constitution and the law. He alleged that an official stationed inside the jail decides who could meet Imran Khan and who not.

Omar Ayub also commented on the deteriorating law and order situation in Balochistan, alleging that the government’s control was limited to the ‘Red Zone’ in Quetta.

He also raised concerns over the alleged abduction of PTI MNA Aoun Abbas Bappi, stating that he had even raised the issue of missing persons before the chief justice of Pakistan.

Omar Ayub criticised the federal government’s financial policies, claiming that Rs1,400 billion were allocated to development, but only Rs62 billion had been spent so far.

Former National Assembly speaker Asad Qaiser stressed the need for a review of Afghan policy, stating that Parliament and political parties must be consulted to determine whether the policy was benefiting or harming Pakistan.

He demanded that the government present National Action Plan (NAP) progress before Parliament. Criticising governance in Punjab and Sindh, he noted that “bandits in Sindh and Punjab’s Kacha areas have become uncontrollable.”

Qaiser also revealed that the PTI is working on forming a new charter of democracy and is reaching out to various parties to forge a national agenda that could lead to fresh elections.

Referring to US statements about Pakistan’s situation, Qaiser remarked that certain elements had started “celebrating” these comments. He confirmed that PTI remains in contact with Maulana Fazlur Rehman and expressed hope for a positive outcome. “We have worked significantly on a national agenda and will present it within two or three days,” he concluded.

Separately talking to the media outside the Anti-Terrorism Court on Thursday, Omar Ayub accused the PPP leadership of betraying the people of Sindh and selling the province’s water.

Omar Ayub asserted that opposition parties are aligning on a single objective — ensuring that the constitution and the law prevail in the country. He expressed confidence that the courts will make decisions based on merit, leading to prosperity for Pakistan.

However, he also pointed out the growing crisis in the country, noting that food prices and utility tariffs have soared, businesses are struggling, and terrorism is on the rise.