Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leader Ali Muhammad Khan revealed that Imran Khan, the party’s founder, expressed optimism after Donald Trump’s recent victory over Kamala Harris in the U.S. presidential election. Imran believes Trump’s return could ease the “negativity” that he feels escalated toward Pakistan under the Biden administration.
Speaking on Geo News’ program Aaj Shahzeb Khanzada Kay Saath, Ali explained that, upon hearing of Trump’s win, Imran—who is currently imprisoned—reflected on the positive relations they shared during his time as prime minister, contrasting it with what he described as interference and hostility under Joe Biden’s leadership.
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The PTI has long alleged that U.S. interference played a role in Imran’s removal from office in April 2022. According to Ali, Imran emphasized that there was “interference” in Pakistan’s internal affairs under Biden’s administration, which he characterized as fostering “negativity.”
Trump, 78, reclaimed the White House on Tuesday after a contentious campaign marked by assassination attempts and Kamala Harris’ late entry following President Biden’s unexpected withdrawal from the race.
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Ali further shared that PTI supporters abroad see Trump’s return as a potentially favorable development for Imran’s political standing, hoping it might ease some of the diplomatic challenges the party faces. “There will definitely be an impact once the Trump administration takes charge. This is a positive development if people with whom we’ve had good ties come into power,” he added.
PTI’s overseas chapter, which has campaigned for Imran’s release, believes Trump’s presidency could help reduce the political difficulties Imran currently faces. Ali also highlighted Imran’s resolve to remain in Pakistan, facing any legal restrictions the current government may impose, and expressed hope that neutrality from state institutions could improve the political environment.
Meanwhile, during Geo News’ special U.S. election coverage, Defence Minister Khawaja Asif stated that the government does not expect Trump to advocate for Imran’s release. “We don’t think Trump will call for PTI founder’s release. Let’s wait for 15 to 20 days to see his stance,” Asif commented.
PTI leader Raoof Hasan also clarified that the party has never relied on Trump’s victory for Imran’s release, emphasizing that they have pursued legal, parliamentary, and protest routes for their leader’s freedom. “We have never pinned hopes on Trump’s win, nor are we relying on it,” he asserted, adding that no such discussion has occurred within the PTI’s parliamentary party.
Following Donald Trump’s U.S. presidential election victory, Imran Khan, then-leader of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), congratulated him on behalf of himself and his party. Khan highlighted that Trump’s win represented the will of the American people overcoming challenges.
He expressed hope that Trump’s presidency would strengthen Pakistan-U.S. relations based on mutual respect for democracy and human rights. Khan further encouraged Trump to champion global peace, human rights, and democratic principles, anticipating a positive shift in international relations with the new administration.
Congratulations on behalf of myself & PTI to @realDonaldTrump for winning the US Presidential Elections. The will of the American people held against all odds.
President Elect Trump will be good for Pak-US relations based on mutual respect for democracy & human rights. We hope…
— Imran Khan (@ImranKhanPTI) November 6, 2024