Former Information Minister Muhammad Ali Durrani seeks bid to unite opposition parties around the goal of securing Imran Khan’s release from prison. Known for his close ties to the establishment, particularly during his tenure in the cabinet of former military ruler Pervez Musharraf, Muhammad Ali Durrani’s move has surprised many.
After a prolonged absence from the political scene, Muhammad Ali Durrani re-emerged ahead of the upcoming February 8, 2024 general elections. He dismissed speculation that he was acting under external influence, emphasizing his role as a facilitator to prevent national crisis.
Muhammad Ali Durrani hosted a significant dinner in Islamabad, attended by key opposition figures including PTI leaders Asad Qaiser, Omar Ayub, Barrister Gohar Ali Khan, Shibli Faraz and Barrister Saif; JUI-F chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman; PkMAP Chairman Mahmood Khan Achakzai; Jamaat-i-Islami leader Liaqat Baloch; and others.
During the meeting, opposition leaders agreed to collaborate on securing the release of political prisoners and strengthening their commitment to upholding the Constitution and the rule of law. Muhammad Ali Durrani stressed that this initiative is a genuine effort aligned with public sentiment, not an engineered move.
Asad Qaiser, a PTI leader, highlighted the collective understanding among opposition parties to unite on the agenda of saving the country, addressing instability in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan, and improving the economy. He reiterated the demand for Imran Khan’s release and emphasized the need for the country to be governed according to the Constitution and the rule of law.
When questioned about Muhammad Ali Durrani’s perceived closeness to the establishment, Asad Qaiser noted that the focus is on policies and viewpoints that align with constitutional governance and justice, rather than on individuals.
