Imran Khan, the incarcerated founder of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI),claimed on Friday that he was being intimidated through the court-martialproceedings of former spymaster Gen (r) Faiz Hameed. He argued that usingFaiz Hameed’s trial as a means of intimidation was a clear demonstration ofpolitical malice. Khan emphasized that any trial excluding retired GenBajwa would be a “malicious” move. He expressed these views during aconversation with journalists at Adiala Jail.
The former premier also took aim at the current leadership, sarcasticallycongratulating them for securing what he referred to as “NRO 2.” This was areference to alleged political compromises that, in his view, have furthercomplicated the pursuit of white-collar criminals. “Catching white-collarcrime was difficult before; now it’s impossible,” he remarked.
Khan went on to criticize parliamentarians, accusing them of usinglegislative power to absolve themselves of corruption charges. He claimedthat, historically, no parliamentary democracy had ever witnessed itslegislature passing laws to exonerate members from such cases.
Regarding the recent statement by the ISPR DG that the army remains neutraland apolitical, Khan welcomed the possibility of this stance benefiting thecountry if it is newly adopted. However, he rejected the notion that thearmy had been neutral all along, calling that claim a “blatant lie.” Hesuggested that his and his wife’s imprisonment was due to the influence ofthe current army chief, General Asim Munir.
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In addition to these criticisms, Imran Khan also addressed internal partymatters. He defended PTI leader Ali Amin Gandapur, who has faced criticismfrom some within the party. Khan stood by his decision to back Gandapur,warning party members that disloyalty and internal conspiracies couldjeopardize their candidacies in the next election. He firmly stated thatthose involved in conspiracies should not expect to receive a ticket forthe upcoming elections.
Khan also expressed concerns over his potential implication following GenFaiz’s arrest. As a result, he has sought an order from the Islamabad HighCourt to prevent his own possible military trial.