Sat Jan 04 11:29:51 UTC 2025: ## Jailed Pakistani PM Imran Khan Rejects Exile Offer

**Lahore, Pakistan –** Former Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan has rejected an offer of three years’ exile in exchange for leaving the country, he announced Friday on X (formerly Twitter). Khan, currently incarcerated at Adiala Jail in Rawalpindi since August 2023, stated that he intends to remain in Pakistan.

While acknowledging indirect approaches suggesting his transfer to his Islamabad residence, Khan reiterated his refusal, conditioning any discussion on his personal situation on the release of his detained party members. He insisted on Pakistan’s internal resolution of its issues, though he acknowledged the international implications of human rights violations.

Khan criticized the current government, alleging an “undeclared dictatorship” marked by the erosion of rule of law and suppression of basic freedoms. He cited the 34-year prison sentence of former Gilgit-Baltistan chief minister Khalid Khurshid as an example. He also accused the previous administration, influenced by General Bajwa, of ousting his government through a vote of no confidence. He expressed expectations of neutrality from the incoming Trump administration, contrasting it with what he described as Biden’s interference.

Regarding ongoing negotiations between his Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party and the government, Khan stated that their demands include the formation of a judicial commission to investigate the May 9, 2023, incidents (alleged attacks on military installations by PTI supporters) and November 26, 2024, events, and the release of political prisoners. He disputed the official account of the May 9 events, claiming that those responsible for the attacks were those who stole CCTV footage. He also stated a deadline of January 31st for the government to meet their demands, threatening a continuation of a boycott campaign on remittances if they are not met. A second round of talks concluded Thursday, with further meetings scheduled for next week.

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