The proposed Imran Khan Release Force has triggered serious legal and political concerns within Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI). The controversial plan was quietly halted after strong objections from the party’s central leadership, who feared it could be seen as unconstitutional and unlawful.
The issue came to light after KP Chief Minister Sohail Afridi publicly announced the formation of the Imran Khan Release Force. The idea was to create a dedicated group aimed at securing the release of jailed former prime minister Imran Khan. However, the move immediately raised alarm bells within the party.
PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan stepped in and directly warned the chief minister against proceeding. According to sources, he made it clear that forming any group described as a “force,” especially one that required members to take an oath for a political objective, could be interpreted as an unconstitutional political force. Such a move, he cautioned, could expose the party to legal action and even allegations of militancy.
The planned oath-taking ceremony was reportedly scheduled for February 22. Insiders say preparations were nearly complete. However, the decision was withdrawn at the last minute after internal objections intensified. There are indications that the KP leadership may attempt to revisit the idea after Ramazan, but for now, the plan remains suspended.
Senior party figures privately admit that the Imran Khan Release Force created a deep PTI leadership crisis. Many within the central command feared that aggressive political mobilisation in Pakistan under such a banner could worsen the party’s already fragile legal standing.
To prevent further damage, Barrister Gohar Ali Khan engaged opposition figures, including Mehmood Khan Achakzai and Allama Raja Nasir Abbas, to build consensus against the move. This step highlighted how seriously the proposal was being viewed across political circles.
During a recent political committee meeting, party members were reportedly instructed to avoid public statements on the issue. The directive suggests that PTI leadership is trying to contain internal fallout and prevent further controversy.
Sources also claim that the idea behind the Imran Khan Release Force may have originated from Murad Saeed, who allegedly proposed it to KP Chief Minister Sohail Afridi. It is further claimed that Afridi was nominated for the top provincial post on Saeed’s recommendation and was not personally known to Imran Khan before his appointment.
The episode reflects a growing PTI internal conflict over strategy. One group favors aggressive street mobilisation. Another camp pushes for a cautious and legally defensible path. For now, the halt of the Imran Khan Release Force signals that concerns over legality have outweighed calls for confrontation.
As the party navigates mounting political pressure, the debate over how to pursue Imran Khan’s release continues. But the message from the central leadership is clear: any move that risks being labeled unlawful or unconstitutional could carry serious consequences.