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Imran Khan Rejects Talks, Calls for Nationwide Protests from Aug 5
Imran Khan rejects reconciliation efforts, declares "no more talks" in latest message from Adiala Jail. PTI to launch nationwide protests from Aug 5—anniversary of his arrest.
ND
by News Desk
2025-07-09
Imran Khan Rejects Talks, Calls for Nationwide Protests from Aug 5

Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founding chairman Imran Khan has categorically rejected calls for dialogue with the ruling coalition, declaring that the time for talks is over and the only way forward is public protest.

In a strongly worded message issued from Adiala Jail on July 8, Imran Khan made it clear that he is not on board with recent efforts from within his own party to initiate reconciliation with the government and other political forces.

This announcement directly contradicts a letter signed just days earlier by five senior PTI leaders incarcerated in Kot Lakhpat Jail—including Shah Mehmood Qureshi—who urged for unconditional talks with all stakeholders, including the ruling alliance and the establishment. That appeal was seen by many observers as a potential breakthrough in an otherwise deadlocked political climate.

However, Imran Khan has taken a hardline position, announcing a nationwide protest movement starting August 5—the second anniversary of his arrest. He said there would be “no more talks with anyone,” and vowed to mobilize the public to rid the country of what he described as "puppet rulers imposed by force."

“The time for dialogue has passed. Now, the struggle will be in the streets,” Imran Khan declared.

The ruling coalition, including PML-N and PPP leaders, had welcomed the letter from the Kot Lakhpat group. Khawaja Saad Rafique called it a “wise and important” gesture, urging both sides to take it as an opportunity for dialogue in the interest of democracy.

Political analysts had also highlighted the letter as a rare window for national consensus in a period of deep political instability. But Imran Khan’s latest statement appears to have closed that window—for now.

Senior PTI sources, speaking on condition of anonymity, acknowledged internal divisions within the party. “Many of us believe dialogue is the only path forward,” one source said, “but if Imran Khan says no, the door is closed.”

Imran Khan’s firm stance signals a renewed confrontational phase in PTI’s political strategy, as the party prepares to mobilize its support base in what could become a prolonged street movement against the coalition government.

With just weeks to go before the planned protests begin, Pakistan braces for another wave of political unrest.

 
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