ISLAMABAD: Informed sources within the federal government have revealedthat deliberations are underway to initiate proceedings against formerprime minister and Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf founder Imran Khan underArticle 6 of the Constitution for high treason. The move, described bysenior officials as a response to alleged attempts to subvertconstitutional order, could mark one of the most significant legal actionsagainst a former head of government in the country’s history.
The consideration follows a series of statements and actions attributed tothe PTI leadership that authorities claim amounted to incitement againststate institutions and violation of oath of office. Particular emphasis hasbeen placed on the events surrounding the May 9, 2023, violence targetingmilitary installations and the subsequent narrative challenging theconstitutional role of the armed forces.
The charge, if approved by the federal cabinet and subsequently byparliament, carries the penalty of death or life imprisonment and wouldrequire a special reference to the Supreme Court for trial.
Legal experts note that Article 6 applies to any person who abrogates,subverts, suspends or holds in abeyance the Constitution by use of force orshow of force or by any other unconstitutional means. Government sourcesmaintain that evidence gathered during multiple inquiries establishes aclear pattern of deliberate attempts to undermine constitutional authoritythrough orchestrated violence and sustained institutional confrontation.
The development comes amid heightened political tensions, with Imran Khancurrently incarcerated in Adiala Jail facing multiple cases ranging fromcorruption to terrorism charges. PTI leaders have consistently rejected allallegations as politically motivated and part of a broader campaign tosuppress the party ahead of future elections.
Political analysts warn that proceeding with an Article 6 case would deepenthe ongoing polarisation and could trigger a fresh wave of public unrest,particularly in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and parts of Punjab where the formerruling party retains significant support. The government, however, appearsdetermined to pursue constitutional accountability, with one seniorminister stating that no individual stands above the law or theConstitution.
The final decision is expected within days, following consultations betweenthe Prime Minister’s Office, the law ministry, and relevant securityinstitutions.
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Source: https://www.dawn.com/news/1978456
Source:https://tribune.com.pk/story/2509123/govt-moves-to-initiate-article-6-proceedings-against-imran-khan
Tags: Imran Khan, Article 6, High Treason, PTI, Pakistan Government
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