Azam Swati admits military rejected PTI’s rapprochement bid in 2022

PTI leader Azam Swati has disclosed that in 2022, former Prime Minister Imran Khan sought to open communication channels with the military establishment through intermediaries, including former President Arif Alvi. 

But despite multiple attempts, these efforts did not yield the desired results. In a video message, Azam Swati detailed that Imran Khan, expressing concern over the strained relations with the military, instructed him to approach the then-newly appointed Army Chief, General Asim Munir, to initiate dialogue. 

Khan emphasized the importance of confidentiality in these efforts, stating that if the establishment was willing to talk, he had been ready since day one, claimed Swati. Swati recounted that, following Khan’s directive, he attempted to reach out to General Munir first through General Asim Munir’s mentor, later through former President Arif Alvi and later through a prominent journalist to mediate the dialogue. 

Despite these concerted efforts, Swati noted that the doors for dialogue remained closed. 

Swati also refuted allegations from a vlogger, clarifying that on November 26, 2022, he was incarcerated in Attock Jail, questioning the credibility of claims suggesting he abandoned the party’s mission. He emphasized his commitment to party unity and expressed support for Ali Amin Gandapur, whom Imran Khan had nominated as Chief Minister. Swati stated, “I don’t want division in the party,” underscoring his alignment with the party’s leadership decisions. 

The outreach initiatives took place in the aftermath of General Asim Munir’s appointment as Army Chief in December 2022. Imran Khan, facing increasing tensions with the military and public criticism from military personnel, sought to mend relations through dialogue. Swati’s revelations shed light on the behind-the-scenes efforts by PTI leadership to navigate the complex civil-military dynamics during that period. These disclosures provide insight into the challenges faced by political leaders in Pakistan when attempting to engage with the military establishment, highlighting the intricate balance of power and the difficulties in establishing open lines of communication. 

In the beginning of the video, Swati said he was making the statement on oath. ‘Quran per haath rakh kr kehta hun…’

Swati claimed Gandapur, Omar Ayub and Shibili Faraz asked him to visits Adila Jail to meet Imran Khan as Swati said he was told that there were chances of bloodshed. PTI Leader said he requested Imran Khan to postpone August 22 rally. Swati said during meeting Imran Khan had said he was ready to hold dialogue. He claimed Imran Khan had the caliber to improve prevailing situation in KP and Balochistan.