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