Pakistan should free Imran Khan from prison, says Grenell

WASHINGTON: Richard Grenell, designated US envoy for key missions, reiterating his call for Imran Khan’s release said the allegations against him mirrored those used against President-elect Donald Trump by political opponents.

Richard Grenell, recently chosen by President-elect Donald Trump as his special envoy for key missions, in an interview with US media outlet NewsMax compared Khan’s situation to that of Trump, stating, “There are similar allegations where the ruling party has imprisoned him under the guise of corruption and false charges.”

Grenell highlighted Khan’s political aspirations: “He wants to contest elections, and it should be up to the people to decide.” He also noted the strong ties between the US and Pakistan during the Trump administration when Khan led the country.

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“Khan was an outsider, a former cricketer, not a traditional politician. He spoke plainly and had a good relationship with Trump,” Grenell explained.

Criticizing the Biden administration, he said, “Jake Sullivan and his team have ignored Pakistan for years. Now, as their term ends, they’re rushing to show interest in such issues.” He underscored the strategic importance of Pakistan, a nuclear-armed nation, and highlighted concerns about its development of long-range missiles capable of reaching the US.

PTI LEADERS WANT NO EXTERNAL INTERFERENCE

PTI leaders, including party chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan and spokesperson Sheikh Waqas Akram, have welcomed Ric Grenell’s remarks but have also emphasised against external interference.

Sheikh Waqas Akram stated, “Anyone advocating for human rights is welcome,” while clarifying, “We appreciate the statement, but it doesn’t imply we seek interference in our country’s internal affairs.”

Barrister Gohar Ali Khan emphasised that Imran Khan’s release should happen in accordance with Pakistan’s Constitution and law.

“The PTI founder will secure freedom through the courts,” he said.

He further stressed that the party does not seek assistance from any country, including the United States. “PTI will neither request nor expect external interference,” Gohar reiterated.

Web Desk