RAWALPINDI: Former interior minister Chaudhry Nisar Ali Khan has ruled out joining any political party until the release of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder and former prime minister Imran Khan, describing him as a close personal friend and reaffirming his commitment to making political decisions based on principles rather than personal interests.
Speaking during meetings with delegations and prominent figures from his constituency at Chakri House near Rawalpindi, Nisar said he had several political options available but would not make any decision in haste.
According to his spokesperson, Sheikh Zeeshan Saeed, the former interior minister discussed the country’s political situation, upcoming local government elections and developments affecting his constituency.
“Imran Khan is my close personal friend and is currently in jail, facing difficult circumstances. May Allah ease his difficulties. In his absence, and until his release, I have no intention of joining any political party,” Nisar said.
His remarks come amid speculation about his political future and possible realignments within Pakistan’s political landscape.
Chaudhry Nisar acknowledges longstanding friendship with Shehbaz Sharif
Nisar also spoke about his personal relationship with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, saying their friendship had continued for nearly three decades despite political differences.
“Even the incumbent prime minister, Shehbaz Sharif, has been my friend for the past 30 years. If I wanted to join a political party, all options would be available to me. However, I will not make any decision in haste,” he said.
The former interior minister maintained that his political future would be determined through consultation with his supporters and the people of his constituency.
He assured them that any decision regarding his political affiliation would reflect their confidence in his leadership and protect their dignity.
“I am the helmsman of the political boat of my constituency and will live up to the confidence reposed in me. Whatever decision I take, I will ensure that it does not compromise your honour and dignity,” he said.
Political principles take precedence over positions, says Nisar
Rejecting suggestions that his political decisions were motivated by the pursuit of power or government positions, Nisar said he had consistently prioritised his principles and self-respect throughout his political career.
He recalled turning down offers of important government positions rather than compromising on his political convictions.
The former minister also referred to his resignation from the interior ministry during a previous government, maintaining that he had never considered public office more important than his principles.
He reiterated that he would not join a political party merely to secure a position or gain political advantage.
Nisar questions government’s intentions over local government elections
Discussing the proposed local government elections, Nisar criticised the incumbent government for what he described as uncertainty over holding the polls.
He said the government appeared undecided about proceeding with local government elections and had yet to establish a clear position.
Despite the uncertainty, Nisar expressed confidence in his political group’s preparations and announced plans to field strong candidates in every union council.
He said his group would contest the elections with full preparation and expressed optimism about securing victory.
Constituency delegations express support for Nisar
During the meetings at Chakri House, delegations and residents from Dhamial, Mohri Ghazan, Chahan, Sahal, Mujahid, Bagra Syedan, Chakri, Kolian Hameed, Ghelan Kalan, Ghulri, Parial, Dohliyal and Singral met the former interior minister.
The visitors raised various civic and administrative issues affecting their respective areas and sought his attention to local concerns.
Several participants expressed confidence in Nisar’s leadership and assured him of their continued political support, regardless of which political platform he might choose in the future.
They praised what they described as his principled political record and commitment to the interests of his constituents.
Nisar’s latest remarks indicate that he intends to maintain his independent political position for the time being, with any decision to join a political party dependent on Imran Khan’s release.
While acknowledging his longstanding personal ties with both Imran Khan and Shehbaz Sharif, the former interior minister made clear that his immediate political priority remained consultation with his constituency and preparation for local government elections.