Lahore: Pakistan’s embattled former Prime Minister Imran Khan has accused the powerful military and its intelligence agency of openly trying to destroy his political party, saying he had “no doubt” he would be tried in a military court and thrown in jail.
As per reports, Khan during an interview on Saturday at his Lahore home bluntly commented on the military’s involvement in the concentrated effort of putting down his Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party. His comments were that, “It is completely the establishment. Establishment obviously means the military establishment, because they are really now openly – I mean, it’s not even hidden now – they’re just out in the open.”
The Pakistan military, which has exerted significant control over the country’s governance during its 75-year history, has seldom faced such a direct challenge to its power as it has from Khan. However, a spokesman for the military declined to comment when contacted regarding Khan’s allegations.
Khan’s accusations against the military have added to the ongoing political turmoil in Pakistan. The country has a long history of military interventions in politics, with the military often seen as a powerful force that plays a significant role behind the scenes.
Contrary to allegations suggesting that his supporters and the PTI party were responsible for the attacks, the former prime minister, who continues to enjoy significant popularity according to recent surveys despite losing a parliamentary confidence vote last year, firmly denied any involvement of his supporters or party in the incidents.
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