Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan has set August 14 as the new date for the party’s nationwide protest, according to his sister Aleema Khan, who spoke to reporters outside Adiala Jail on Wednesday.
“Imran Khan has told us that the people must rise for real freedom,” said Aleema, relaying his message to the media after her visit.
She added that the PTI founder had urged party leaders not to fear arrests or jail time and directed that no disqualified candidates should be replaced on their seats, insisting those disqualifications were unlawful.
“The rule of law no longer exists in the country,” Aleema said, calling on all Pakistanis to join the protest on Independence Day.
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Aleema further revealed that Imran Khan expressed satisfaction over the public response to recent protests despite mounting pressure.
“He was pleased to hear that people came out in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Punjab. He sends his tribute to the people,” she said.
She also confirmed that Uzma Khan met both Imran Khan and Bushra Bibi.
According to Aleema, Khan drew parallels between today’s situation and historical repression.
“Even past dictators didn’t inflict such oppression,” she quoted him as saying. “Yahya Khan divided the country for power; today, the media’s voice is being choked, and sacrifices must be made for freedom.”
Aleema said that Khan had made no complaints about his personal treatment in jail but remained focused on the broader struggle.
The PTI founder also reportedly sent a message to the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government, opposing the ongoing security operation in the province.
He warned that it could create public resentment against PTI and advised that the issue should be resolved through jirgas (tribal councils).
“If Ali Amin Gandapur cannot stop the operation, he must reconsider his position,” Khan was quoted as saying.
