PTI Holds Establishment, Govt Accountable for Imran Khan’s Safety
Shoaib Shaheen, spokesperson for Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), issued a stern warning, holding the incumbent government and the establishment accountable for any harm that befalls the incarcerated party founder, Imran Khan.
Heightened Security Concerns Speaking to reporters outside the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) office in Islamabad, Shaheen expressed grave concerns over threats to Imran Khan’s life. He questioned why Adiala Jail, where Khan is imprisoned, seems to be a target for terrorists, raising suspicions of foul play.
Arrest of Alleged Terrorists Shaheen’s statement follows the Counter Terrorism Department’s (CTD) claim of arresting three individuals described as “Afghan” terrorists. The arrests were accompanied by the recovery of a map of Adiala Jail, a hand grenade, and Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs), further heightening security apprehensions.
Political Backdrop Imran Khan, Pakistan’s ousted prime minister, is currently serving multiple sentences in Rawalpindi’s Adiala Jail, including charges related to Toshakana, un-Islamic marriage, and the cipher case. His detention comes amid allegations of electoral fraud and rigging in the 2024 nationwide elections, where PTI secured a significant number of seats despite Khan’s incarceration.
Allegations of Electoral Tampering Shaheen reiterated claims of electoral irregularities, alleging tampering of poll records and vote counts in favor of opposing parties. He announced PTI’s intention to release a “white paper” detailing these allegations and vowed to pursue legal action against returning officers implicated in electoral misconduct.
Political Stance Amidst growing political tensions, Shaheen criticized the current government, accusing them of perpetuating elitist policies and predicting further economic hardship for the nation. He emphasized PTI’s refusal to engage in negotiations with what he described as “dacoits” (bandits), underscoring the party’s steadfast stance against compromise.
Call for Accountability Shaheen’s remarks underscore a mounting sense of urgency surrounding Khan’s safety and the integrity of Pakistan’s electoral process. As PTI vows to hold authorities accountable and pursue legal avenues to address electoral grievances, the nation braces for heightened political turbulence amidst ongoing uncertainty and unrest.