Imran Khan, the founder of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) and former Prime Minister of Pakistan, has condemned those who once championed the slogan “respect the vote” but have now aligned with the military, describing it as the “biggest U-turn” in Pakistan’s political history.
Speaking informally to journalists from Adiala Jail, Khan highlighted his readiness to engage in dialogue within a constitutional framework. He asserted, “I will negotiate within the constitutional framework, but first, our mandate must be returned. What dialogue can I have with a government that would collapse with the opening of just four constituencies? My negotiations will be with those who hold actual power.”
Khan reiterated his point, stating, “The real U-turn is by those who shouted ‘respect the vote’ and ended up respecting ‘the boot.'” This statement underscores his disapproval of the political shift towards military alignment by those who previously advocated for electoral respect.
Khan revealed that he had tasked Mahmood Khan Achakzai with engaging other political parties. He explained, “Mahmood Khan Achakzai will handle discussions with political entities,” indicating his strategy to facilitate political dialogue through intermediaries.
Addressing the criticism he faces over the call for protests in front of the General Headquarters (GHQ), Khan questioned, “Where in the constitution does it say that protesting in front of GHQ is prohibited? There is an undeclared martial law in the country. The army owes me an apology for the injustices I’ve faced, as I was kidnapped by the Rangers.”
This statement reflects Khan’s stance on the right to protest and his grievances against the military’s conduct towards him.
On the matter of the Toshakhana references, Khan accused the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) of violating its own laws. He stated, “NAB filed two references against me regarding the Toshakhana, claiming undervaluation of a necklace in both cases. Inam Shah, the same approver, is used in both references. Once acquitted, I plan to file cases against Chairman NAB Mohsin Naqvi, the investigating officers, and those who provided false testimony.”
Khan further added that NAB was unaware that the necklace in question was with him, stating, “Before the March 18 raid at Bani Gala, all valuable items were moved to a secure location. I inadvertently revealed that we had the necklace, leading NAB to hastily sentence me.”
These allegations highlight Khan’s ongoing conflict with NAB and his plans to take legal action against those he believes wronged him.
Khan concluded his statements by recounting his experience in jail, saying, “I’ve suffered food poisoning twice because there’s no fridge, and the food spoils.”
