Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan has called for equal representation of the government and opposition on a proposed electoral reforms committee, arguing that the process must remain impartial and reflect public aspirations.
Speaking to reporters outside Parliament House, Gohar criticized the proposed representation, saying the government’s 15 members compared with just five from the opposition would make meaningful participation difficult.
“Your 15 against our five — under such circumstances, it would be better not to sit together,” he said.
Gohar said electoral reforms should be developed through a balanced process involving both sides equally, with the objective of ensuring fair and credible elections.
He also warned against escalating political tensions, saying internal divisions could inflict greater damage on the country than external challenges. Political leaders, he added, should play a constructive role in reducing tensions rather than deepening the confrontation.
Commenting on a recent speech by Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (F) chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman, Gohar said some of the remarks could have been avoided. However, he also criticized the attacks made in response to the speech, describing them as inappropriate.
Political tensions had already reached a critical level, he said, urging all sides to avoid further escalation.
Gohar maintained that his party did not intend to cross any red lines, emphasizing that Pakistan and the state must remain the priority. He called on political leaders to avoid actions that could undermine democracy or damage the political leadership.
The remarks come after PTI agreed in principle to cooperate on electoral reforms following an invitation from the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP). The party is expected to submit a formal response within days.
The proposed committee will review the 2024 general elections, subsequent by-elections and elections in Gilgit-Baltistan and Azad Jammu and Kashmir. Any proven cases of rigging would be followed by action against those responsible, according to the stated plan.
