By Irum Saleem
LAHORE: In a rare public appearance following his release from incarceration, Central President of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) and former Chief Minister Punjab, Chaudhry Parvez Elahi, addressed the media outside the court and delivered a strongly worded statement in support of Pakistan’s armed forces and national leadership. His remarks come at a critical time amid heightened tensions with India, in the aftermath of the recent Operation “Bunyan-Marsoos.”
While speaking to journalists, Elahi said, “No matter how much praise is offered, it is not enough to acknowledge the courage and success of the Pakistan Air Force and the Pakistan Army in the recent operation. By the grace of Almighty Allah, the entire nation stands united today.”
He emphasized that such unity must be preserved, and for that to happen, he said, the release of PTI founder Imran Khan from prison is crucial.
“National unity is the need of the hour. We may have political differences — and such differences will always exist — but when it comes to Pakistan, we are all one. The country must come first,” he said.
Chaudhry Parvez Elahi’s statement is particularly significant given that it marks one of his first formal media interactions since his release from jail after months of legal and political turmoil.
His re-emergence into the political spotlight signals PTI’s efforts to regroup amid a changed power structure and escalating regional instability.
Mr Elahi did not hold back in referencing India’s recent setback. “India has received a strong blow through this operation. Insha’Allah, it will think twice before any future aggression,” he stated.
“And if it dares to attack again, Pakistan’s response will be even more forceful.”
Elahi’s words appear to be part of a broader PTI narrative seeking to combine support for national security with demands for political justice, particularly surrounding the continued incarceration of Imran Khan.
His remarks are expected to resonate with the party’s base and possibly shift public focus toward political reconciliation in times of external threats.
Observers believe that Elahi’s vocal support for the military and simultaneous demand for Khan’s release is an attempt to bridge the deepening civil-military divide and reposition PTI as a party that stands firmly behind the armed forces while advocating democratic norms.
This appearance may also mark the beginning of a more active political role for Parvez Elahi as PTI navigates a complex post-crackdown landscape, where many of its leaders remain under pressure and organizational strength has been significantly tested. PAK DESTINY
