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Tag: Rana Sanaullah

  • ‘Two attempts to strike deals with Imran Khan failed,’ says Rana Sanaullah

    ‘Two attempts to strike deals with Imran Khan failed,’ says Rana Sanaullah

    Adviser to the Prime Minister on Political Affairs, Rana Sanaullah, has saidthat two serious attempts were made to reach a political agreement with Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan but both failed. 

    “The first attempt was led by Mohsin Naqvi and Ali Amin Gandapur before November 26, and the second was made by a few people from abroad,” he said during an interview with a private news channel. He added, “In both meetings, the founder agreed to the deal but later backed out.”

    Speaking about Imran Khan’s approach, Rana Sanaullah said, “He is not willing to find a way out. Whether call it stubbornness or rigidity; the point is that he does not want to find a solution.”

    He added that the PTI founder’s conditions for a deal were unacceptable. He quoted Imran Khan as saying, “You people come to jail in my place and I will come to your place.”

    Rana Sanaullah compared the situation with the political approach of other leaders. “Nawaz Sharif is a senior politician. He also found a way forward for himself and his party,” he said. The adviser emphasized that the government and military leadership have no interest in blocking dialogue between political leaders but that meaningful talks require agreement from both sides.

    In a separate interview on another news channel’s program, Rana Sanaullah addressed PTI’s political actions and Imran Khan’s medical treatment. He said the former prime minister received the best available care and claimed PTI is using the issue for political purposes. “PTI’s focus is on creating anarchy and disorder in the country,” he said, adding that the party’s activities were unrelated to Imran Khan’s treatment.

    He also criticized road blockages in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), saying, “Where in the constitution is a provincial government allowed to block roads? Any province’s IG and Chief Secretary are bound to follow High Court orders.” Rana Sanaullah said these moves are part of PTI’s political strategy rather than concern for Imran Khan’s health.

    The adviser added that PTI will never be satisfied and questioned some of the legal tactics being used.

  • ‘No ban on politics, only on abuse’: Rana Sanaullah on Imran Khan’s jail meetings

    ‘No ban on politics, only on abuse’: Rana Sanaullah on Imran Khan’s jail meetings

    Adviser to the Prime Minister on Political Affairs Rana Sanaullah on Thursday said there was no ban on political discussion during meetings with PTI founder Imran Khan, but restrictions were imposed due to violations of court undertakings and the use of jail meetings for what he described as political conduct.

    Speaking on a private news channel’s program, Rana Sanaullah said the issue of meetings had been blown out of proportion and could be resolved if High Court orders were implemented “in letter and spirit.”


    Responding to a question about restrictions on political speech, Rana Sanaullah rejected the allegation outright.

    “There is only one restriction,” he said. “No abuse against the country, the state, institutions, or the heads of institutions.”

    He added, “If that is avoided, who can stop anyone from talking about politics?”

    When asked whether Imran Khan had ever spoken against Pakistan, Rana Sanaullah maintained that while the former prime minister may not have directly targeted the country, he had repeatedly crossed lines elsewhere.

    “He abuses everyone, there is less politics and more abuse,” he said.

    However, he acknowledged that criticism related to international lobbying and IMF matters had been directed against political opponents, not the country itself.

    “If the IMF tranche is delayed, the loss is Pakistan’s,” Rana Sanaullah said.


    Rana Sanaullah also claimed that recordings exist of Imran Khan’s statements, though he said they could not be aired during the programme.

    He maintained that institutions had been criticised. 

    At this point, journalist Hamid Mir intervened, asking whether the remarks were of the kind “that you yourself used to make 30 to 35 years ago.” 

    Before the discussion concluded, Hamid Mir also asked Rana Sanaullah to at least let him hear the alleged recording off-air so he could inform viewers whether the remarks in question were objectionable or not.

  • Rana Sanaullah says PTI repeating India’s narrative

    Rana Sanaullah says PTI repeating India’s narrative

    Prime Minister’s Political Adviser Rana Sanaullah has stated that the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) is unwilling to participate in discussions, alleging that Imran Khan has restricted party members from negotiating. 

    He mentioned that the government made numerous attempts to open communications for conversations with PTI, but there was no reaction from the party. He believes that if PTI had accepted the prime minister’s invitation for talks, the political climate in the country could have calmed down.

    Rana Sana said “Imran Khan and PTI leaders are repeating the same narrative that India is giving”. He noted that this narrative was being echoed in public statements and was influencing the party’s current political stance.

    He alleged that a large fraction of PTI’s leadership no longer aligned with the direction set forth by the party founder. “Approximately 80 percent of PTI members presently do not agree with Imran Khan’s policies and political strategy,” he commented.

    In a separate interview on a private news channel, Rana Sanaullah referred to remarks made during a recent rally, suggesting those comments would be noted by the relevant authorities, and they would do so decisively. He indicated that the individuals  passing the statements were pushing themselves towards repercussions for their actions. “The majority of PTI will not partake in this insanity,” he predicted. 

    Rana Sana indicated that potential for a treason case against Imran Khan could not be dismissed. He expressed that the situation might progress toward legal procedures that would define the political future of the PTI founder. He suggested that Imran Khan’s journey might parallel that of the MQM and its founder Altaf Hussain. 

    He remarked that the rifts within PTI were becoming increasingly apparent and noted that, in his opinion, the distinction between what he termed Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf and “Adiala Tehreek-e-Insaf” would soon be evident. He mentioned that these discrepancies were emerging in light of recent political events and reactions from party members who no longer agreed with the existing strategy.

  • Rana Sanaullah confirms Field Marshal Asim Munir will remain army chief till Nov 2027

    Rana Sanaullah confirms Field Marshal Asim Munir will remain army chief till Nov 2027

    Advisor to Prime Minister (PM) on Political Affairs Rana Sanaullah on Thursday confirmed that Field Marshal General Asim Munir will remain the Chief of Army Staff (COAS) until November 2027.

    “His [COAS Asim Munir] tenure will end in November 2027,” Sanaullah said, appearing on a private media outlet, adding that if the field marshal is not given an extension, he will retire.

    When asked whether the option of extension exists as yet, Pakistan Muslim League Nawaz (PML-N) top brass Sanaullah said it is in the “law”, reminding the host of Munir’s predecessor, who had gotten an extension in the past. “Some individuals even took extensions for themselves,” he added.

    Lauding General Munir’s leadership during the conflict with India in May this year, Sanaullah said that the former earned the field marshal rank, noting that the army chief’s achievements make him most deserving of an extension.

    The former Punjab law minister asserted that the current National Assembly (NA) will complete its term by 2029, ruling out incarcerated former premier Imran Khan’s political moves as unrealistic. He added that the government is open to talks if Imran Khan wishes to pursue politics, whether from jail or outside.

    Sanaullah asserted that PM Shehbaz Sharif is pursuing stability for Pakistan, while PTI founder Imran Khan seeks civil unrest, emphasising that the events of May 9 were not a political protest but an attempt at civil war.

    Addressing claims suggesting that the formation of new provinces is under deliberation, the PML-N leader clarified that there is no discussion on creating new provinces, but tweaks to the National Finance Commission (NFC) Award are under consideration to address financial imbalances. 

    He said the federation is under severe fiscal pressure, while provinces have greater capacity, and consensus will be sought to resolve the issue.

    His remarks appeared to be in line with the experts’ view that, in the upcoming 27th Amendment, ostensibly to be tabled in November this year, provinces will be asked to shoulder the finances of natural disasters.

  • Sanaullah warns Imran Khan’s sons may be arrested if they come to protest in Pakistan

    Sanaullah warns Imran Khan’s sons may be arrested if they come to protest in Pakistan

    Advisor to Prime Minister (PM) on Political Affairs Rana Sanaullah on Tuesday cautioned that if Suleman Khan and Qasim Khan, sons of jailed former premier Imran Khan, come to Pakistan to lead the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) scheduled protest on August 5, they will be arrested.

    Appearing on a private media outlet, Sanaullah sternly asked why Imran Khan’s sons would not be arrested if they came to join the “violent protest”, warning that they would be in trouble.

    On being asked by the host about why Pakistan Muslim League Nawaz (PML-N) top brass Rana Sanaullah thinks that the August 5 protest would be violent, Sanaullah said, “After May 9… who would believe that protest will not be violent?”

    When further asked whether PTI will not be allowed at all to stage protests, Sanaullah said, “Yes, PTI will not be allowed” to do so, adding that they will only gather on roads for violent protests.

    Speaking to reporters outside Adiala Jail Rawalpindi on Tuesday, Imran Khan’s sister Aleema Khan stated that her brother intends to lead a protest movement from jail against the 26th Constitutional Amendment, while his sons will join the campaign after returning from the United States (US).

    “Imran Khan’s sons, Qasim and Sulaiman, will first go to the United States to raise awareness about the injustices faced by their father, and then they will take part in the movement being launched in Pakistan. Imran Khan has been informed of this,” she said.

    She added, “People must come out for themselves, for democracy, for the rule of law, and against the 26th Amendment. Anyone who cannot bear the weight of this movement should step aside now.”

    Last week, PTI spokesperson Sheikh Waqas Akram told a leading English daily that his party first postponed the nationwide protests due to the Iran-Israel war, then it delayed it out of respect for Muharram.

    The PTI spokesperson stated that in the first phase, demonstrations would be held in provinces and districts.

    When asked about Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur’s statement that he will carry weapons to the protest, Akram said Gandapur was talking about self-defense. “What the chief minister meant was that everybody has the right to self-defence,” he added.

    The PTI spokesperson further claimed the PTI patron-in-chief had directed Gandapur to lead the protest.

  • Dr Abdul Qadeer Khan cannot be called a ‘hero’: Rana Sana

    Dr Abdul Qadeer Khan cannot be called a ‘hero’: Rana Sana

    Advisor to the Prime Minister on Political Affairs, Rana Sanaullah, stated that Dr Abdul Qadeer Khan can not be considered “a hero” but deserves respect as a scientist.

    In an exclusive interview with ARY News on Saturday, when asked whether Dr Abdul Qadeer Khan could be called a hero, Sanaullah responded, “He cannot be called a hero. Dr Qadeer receives the recognition he deserves.”

    Referring to Pakistan becoming a nuclear power, he asserted that only Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) supremo and former prime minister Nawaz Sharif can rightfully be considered the “true hero.”

    “It’s important to understand that several countries and scientists have developed nuclear bombs. The real achievement lies in making the decision to conduct nuclear tests and publicly declare your country an atomic power,” he explained.

    The PML-N leader also credited former prime minister Zulfikar Ali Bhutto for initiating Pakistan’s nuclear program. He recalled that the defining moment came on May 28, 1998, when Pakistan conducted underground nuclear tests in the Chagai district of Balochistan, marking the country’s first public demonstration of nuclear capability.

    He dismissed critics who claim Nawaz Sharif was reluctant to approve the tests, saying, “Those who claim Nawaz Sharif didn’t want to conduct the tests are blinded by jealousy and hatred.”

    Dr Abdul Qadir Khan earned his science degree from Karachi University in 1960 and pursued metallurgical engineering in Berlin, followed by advanced studies in the Netherlands and Belgium.

    He then joined Pakistan’s covert nuclear development and founded Khan Research Laboratories (KRL) in 1976, serving as its chief scientist and director for many years.

    He was awarded the Nishan-i-Imtiaz for his services to the country.

    Dr Khan passed away in Islamabad in October 2021 at the age of 85. He was given a state funeral at Faisal Mosque before being laid to rest in the H-8 graveyard.

  • Govt hints at relocating jailed Imran Khan

    Govt hints at relocating jailed Imran Khan

    Advisor to Prime Minister (PM) on Political Affairs Rana Sanaullah has hinted at the possibility of relocating jailed former premier Imran Khan in case of security or health concerns.

    Speaking to a private media outlet, Sanaullah said that arrangements could be made under special provisions if any security or health issues arise.

    “However, nothing of the sort has so far been discussed,” he clarified.

    Sanaullah said that the decision to conduct the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder’s trial within jail premises was also made to ensure his safety. “If he [Imran Khan] is brought to the complex where courts are situated, it could be very dangerous,” he said, adding that it was also the reason why no one had objected to it.

    When asked if the verdict in the Al-Qadir Trust case against Khan had been deferred as part of the ongoing negotiations between the government and PTI, the former Punjab Law minister said the two had nothing to do with each other. The delay might have to do with the relevant judge’s unavailability, he added.

    “We [incumbent government] and the PTI are on the same page that the verdict in this case will not affect the negotiations,” Sanaullah said.

    It merits a mention that the government and the PTI have finally broken ice with negotiations formally starting to end the political deadlock that had been continuing for nearly three years.

    Both PM Shehbaz Sharif and the jailed PTI founder have formed negotiation committees in a bid to end tensions surrounding the crackdown on the opposition party.

    With talks continuing despite temporary setbacks, the former ruling party has so far put forth two key demands that include the formation of a judicial commission comprising to investigate the May 9, 2023, and November 24, 2024, events, besides the release of all the political prisoners.

    The talks had hit a roadblock amid the PTI’s refusal to submit its demands in writing without discussing it with party founder Khan amid an alleged ban on his meetings with the negotiation committee in jail.

    With the members of the PTI committee meeting Khan earlier this week, they were permitted to the submit their demands in writing, ending the deadlock.

    While a third round of talks is still awaited, the government has also asked the PTI to provide names of jailed party workers for discussion on their potential release from jail.

    Separately, unverified reports have also claimed backchannel talks between the PTI leadership and state authorities for the provision of relief to the incarcerated former PM as well.

  • This top leader believes Imran’s sister, wife Bushra want him to stay in jail

    This top leader believes Imran’s sister, wife Bushra want him to stay in jail

    Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on Political Affairs Rana Sanaullah has claimed the existence of two separate groups within the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), alleging they wanted party founder Imran Khan to stay in jail so that they could “take over the party”.

    Appearing on a private news channel, the PM’s aide claimed that the groups, led by Khan’s sister Aleema Khan and wife Bushra Bibi, wanted the incarcerated premier to stay in jail forever. “They [Aleema and Bushra groups] want Khan to remain in jail. In fact, they want him to stay there forever because after that, they could take over the entire party.”

    He went on to say that the general public deserved to know this.

    When asked about Aleema’s alleged leaked chats criticising Bushra and suggesting to ban her from visiting Khan in jail, Sanaullah said that the ongoing talks between the government and PTI had left some people within the party worried.

    “Some people in the PTI are worried and want talks between the government and the PTI to not be successful. These are the same people who are spokespersons of Khan outside [Adiala Jail],” he said and went on to claim that according to the leaked chats, they wanted Khan to stay in the same situation.

    “In fact, they want Khan to be in a much worse situation,” he added.

    To a question about the authenticity of the leaked chats, Sanaullah said that the government also only saw the alleged chats on social media. “[Then] I got them verified from my sources,” he added.

    “If Aleema Khan says these screenshots are fake then she should come out and defend herself. I would be glad if she could prove her innocence. Because it is extremely unfortunate that, even though he [Imran Khan] is our opponent, his close relatives and allies are betraying him.”

    When asked about his recent press conference and newfound sympathy for the jailed former premier, Sanaullah said he wanted the public to know that these were the kind of people surrounding Imran Khan.

    “I know the cult won’t believe me but a common person must know that this is the kind of party that ruled over the country for nearly three years,” he said.

  • Stay home if Adiala jail doesn’t suit you, but let us complete our five years: Rana Sanaullah

    Stay home if Adiala jail doesn’t suit you, but let us complete our five years: Rana Sanaullah

    Advisor to Prime Minister on Political Affairs Rana Sanaullah on Friday spoke about government demands that might be included in negotiations with Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI).

    Appearing on 365 News political talk show Head On, Rana Sanaullah stated that the incumbent government was of the view that if Imran Khan didn’t want to be imprisoned in Adiala Jail Rawalpindi, then he could come home but let the Pakistan Muslim League Nawaz (PML-N) led government will complete the five-year term.

    Ex-PM Imran Khan stated on Friday that he was offered home arrest.

    In a post on X (formerly Twitter), the party founder remarked, “The proposal I received for a deal was: Negotiate with us, and we will give your party ‘political space’, but you will be placed under house arrest and moved to Bani Gala.”

    “My response was that all other political prisoners must first be released. I would rather stay in jail than accept any deal. I will neither go into house arrest nor to any prison in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa,” he added.

    However, contrary to Imran Khan’s claim, PML-N top brass Rana Sanaullah denied that the government had offered house arrest to Imran Khan, noting, “Being the former premier, courts might grant Imran Khan house arrest.”

    On being asked about whether the government will agree to hold elections in the next two to three years as a demand of negotiations with the PTI, the Advisor to PM on Political Affairs clarified, “This time, I’ll say it is a non-negotiable demand.”

    When questioned whether the government was concerned about the United States (US) President-elect Donald Trump’s nominee for Envoy for Special Missions, Richard Grenell’s consistent posts in favour of Imran Khan, the former Punjab Law minister categorically said, “We [government] should not worry even if the Donald J Trump himself issues such statements.”

    Declaring Richard Grenell’s remarks about Imran Khan a stunt, Sanaullah maintained, “Richard Grenell’s statements don’t hold any importance for the government.”

    Following the crackdown of Pakistan security forces on PTI demonstrators on November 26 in Islamabad, former US ambassador to Germany Richard Grenell initially posted on his account on X in favour of Imran Khan, writing, “Free Imran Khan!”. However, he did not receive much attention at that time.

    Grenell was discussed in Pakistan politics on December 15, when Trump appointed him as his Special Envoy for Global Missions in his administration. His social media posts then were amplified by PTI supporters.

  • Non-bailable arrest warrants issued for Rana Sanaullah

    Non-bailable arrest warrants issued for Rana Sanaullah

    Judicial Magistrate Sidra Gul Nawaz has issued non-bailable arrest warrants for the Advisor to the Prime Minister on Political and Public Affairs, Rana Sanaullah, in connection with a case registered at the Satellite Town police station in Punjab’s Gujranwala district.

    The 2020 First Information Report (FIR) in the case stated that four Pakistan Muslim League Nawaz (PML-N) members attending a PDM rally in Gujranwala on October 16, and then attempted to ram their vehicle into law enforcement officers.

    Sanaullah was accused of removing a container and ramming a vehicle into police officers. The case was filed by the police themselves during the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) government in 2020.

    The court has ordered his arrest and presentation before the judge on December 12.

    Former minister Khurram Dastgir, city president Salman Khalid, and Member Provincial Assembly (MPA) Imran Khalid Butt had already been acquitted in the case.

    The police had submitted a report under Section 173, declaring Rana Sanaullah innocent. However, the court rejected the report and summoned the Prime Minister’s Advisor on Political and Public Affairs for proceedings.