Imran Khan, the former prime minister and founder of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), currently detained in Adiala Jail, has expressed his intent to correspond with army chief General Asim Munir regarding the current state of affairs in the country.
This revelation comes amidst Khan’s steadfast refusal to succumb to military pressures, notably his recent defiance against calls to apologise for the May 9 events and his party’s disassociation from last year’s violent protests following his arrest.
Khan’s stance contrasts sharply with the recent press conference held by the Director General of Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), where individuals involved in the May 9 protests were urged to seek forgiveness and renounce the politics of “anarchy” before engaging in dialogue. The military spokesperson categorically dismissed the possibility of dialogue with those who targeted military installations and disrespected the nation’s martyrs.
Addressing the media from within Adiala Jail, Imran Khan articulated his intention to correspond with the army chief regarding the country’s current situation. He emphasized the necessity of forming a government in accordance with the public mandate, stressing that the country cannot function effectively otherwise.
Khan drew attention to the dire economic conditions, highlighting a stark contrast between the staggering Rs13.3 trillion in tax collection and the Rs9.3 trillion paid in loan interest. He questioned the sustainability of a nation of 240 million people under such circumstances and warned of impending turmoil for the salaried class with anticipated increases in electricity and gas prices ahead of the budget.
Expressing concern over ongoing protests in Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) against inflated power bills, Khan lamented what he perceived as the erosion of democracy in the country. He pointed to recent governmental changes in AJK and Gilgit-Baltistan, where his party’s government was ousted, and predicted further unrest due to increased taxes and utility bills in the upcoming budget.
Regarding allegations against him, Khan addressed the matter of a £190 million contract, attributing secrecy demands to a property tycoon and the UK’s National Crime Agency (NCA). He clarified that the funds seized in the UK were due to suspicious transactions, not money laundering, and defended the allocation of funds to Al-Qadir Trust University.
In response to questions about Nawaz Sharif and Asif Ali Zardari, Khan highlighted their alleged financial misdeeds and criticised the disparity in treatment compared to his own situation. He pointed out instances where Sharif and Zardari allegedly benefitted from state resources without facing consequences. Khan mentioned that Nawaz Sharif bought a bullet-proof car for only Rs 600,000 from Toshakhana, the state’s gift depository, and Zardari took three vehicles from Toshakhana, seeking immunity from the court. Additionally, Khan stated that Hasan Sharif sold property worth 18 billion rupees, and emphasised the need for accountability across the board.
In response to questions about Shahzad Akbar and Farah Gogi, Khan clarified his interactions with Gogi, hinting at repercussions for Akbar upon his return to the country. He also acknowledged the contributions of Sher Afzal Marwat to the party but underscored the importance of adhering to party policies.
Khan refrained from commenting on the possibility of meeting Marwat in jail, leaving reporters without a response.
