THE immediate threat of confrontation seems to have been successfully averted.
The main concern had been that following the DG ISPR’s press briefing, PTI might erupt, potentially making a misstep even graver than the events of May 9. Fortunately, that did not materialize. It is true that during the Peshawar rally, some participants talked about marching toward D-Chowk and Chief Minister Suhail Afridi himself suggested that such a scenario was possible. A few placards displaying the party’s customary indecorous language were also visible. Yet, despite these provocations, the overall message of the gathering remained largely positive. Suhail Afridi, mindful of the audience’s temperament, refrained from making any incendiary statements. His tone was generally apologetic. The rally’s overarching message was clear: PTI and its leadership remain loyal not only to Pakistan but also to the defence forces.
This message was reinforced in the press conference held by PTI’s leadership in response to the DG ISPR’s briefing. One striking element of that press conference was a comment by Barrister Gohar. He stated, “We set out to secure Imran Khan’s release, but we now find ourselves reduced to merely requesting meetings.” Why did he deem it appropriate to voice such a remark at this sensitive moment? The reality is that his words carry multiple layers of meaning. They reveal that the present situation is a direct result of a strategy that had brought the party to the edge of confrontation. This strategy had not only rendered Imran Khan’s release impossible but also made even routine meetings extraordinarily difficult. There is another implicit message as well. By framing it in this way, Barrister Gohar subtly indicated that such a confrontational approach has transformed PTI into a party perceived as anti-state. Voicing this statement in the context of responding to the DG ISPR’s press conference signals a single, important point: the strategy of confrontation must now be reconsidered.
Whether it is Barrister Gohar or Suhail Afridi, both leaders have demonstrated prudence and wisdom by choosing caution at this delicate juncture. If PTI follows the path they have outlined, there remains a chance that a negotiated middle ground or a form of reconciliation could emerge. Such an outcome would be highly desirable. Yet the critical question remains: will the party consistently adhere to the careful course charted by these two leaders? This is the central issue in the current volatile political environment and it stems from one primary factor: PTI’s present predicament is largely due to Imran Khan’s non-political and ethically questionable behaviour. Politics cannot function under such an approach. Even now, the greatest risk lies in the possibility that an unexpected tweet or a statement from Khan’s sisters could completely undermine the painstaking work of Barrister Gohar and Suhail Afridi. This is a danger capable of propelling PTI and its founder toward an even more destructive outcome. Can Imran Khan and his online supporters be restrained from such destabilizing actions? No one can provide a guarantee.
Given these realities, the only viable hope is that Barrister Gohar and Suhail Afridi’s judicious attempt to apply the brakes succeeds, preventing the situation from deteriorating further. Their measured approach at this critical moment demonstrates a level of statesmanship that could yet save PTI from plunging into deeper crisis. Ultimately, the unfolding scenario reflects a delicate balance between leadership prudence and organizational loyalty. The success of PTI’s careful strategy depends not just on its leaders’ wisdom but on the discipline and restraint of its wider political base. If the party collectively honours this approach, there is potential for de-escalation and, perhaps, a return to constructive political engagement. On the other hand, any deviation driven by impulsive actions or personal ambitions could undo months of careful manoeuvering, pushing both the party and the country toward renewed instability.
In conclusion, while the immediate confrontation has been avoided, the situation remains precarious. The judicious handling of this moment by Barrister Gohar and Suhail Afridi provides a rare opportunity for measured political action. It is imperative that the party recognizes the gravity of the circumstances and continues on this path. Only through collective restraint, strategic patience and disciplined leadership can PTI navigate the turbulent waters it currently faces and avoid the peril of self-inflicted political crises.
—This writer is former advisor to the President of Pakistan, author & mass media theorist.
(farooq.adilbhuta@gmail,com)
