NEW JERSEY: Former president of Pakistan and senior PTI leader Dr Arif Alvi has said he did not ask any US lawmaker or official to intervene for the release of Imran Khan during his ongoing visit to the United State.
He claimed that such a move would be against the dignity of both the country and himself.
Speaking at a luncheon hosted by PTI leader Naveed Warraich in New Jersey, Dr Alvi clarified that he had no intention of seeking any political position in the future. Quoting a verse from the Holy Quran, he said worldly pursuits often overshadow the true purpose of life and that he now wishes to focus on what lies beyond, instead of remaining engaged in politics.
Responding to a question regarding his meetings with American officials, the former president said: “I represent Pakistan. It is neither appropriate for me nor in line with the country’s dignity to make demands or requests in such settings.”
He added that while he did not ask for any favour regarding Imran Khan, he did raise issues such as freedom of expression, human rights and the need to curb violence—subjects protected by the Constitution of Pakistan and the UN Charter.
Dr Alvi also referred to the controversial cipher incident, recalling that on March 23, 2022, during the Pakistan Day parade, Imran Khan showed him a letter which he claimed contained a foreign directive to remove his government. “I told him this seemed very dangerous,” Alvi said, adding that just weeks later, on April 10, the government was removed.
He said if press freedom is ensured and violence is eliminated in Pakistan, the country could see meaningful change in just two months.
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