The Chhattisgarh

Tag: PTI

  • ‘Prefer To Remain In Jail Rather Than…’: Imran Khan Says No Negotiation, No Deal With Pakistan Govt | world news

    Lahore: Pakistan’s jailed former prime minister and PTI chief Imran Khan has said that he would prefer to remain in jail for nine more years than strike a deal with those who have enslaved his country. The PTI boss has categorically ruled out an agreement with those ”who have enslaved the country.” In a message for the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leaders and workers on the party’s 28th Foundation Day, Khan said that the “ worst dictatorship” was imposed on the country which was becoming the basis for the “destruction” of the economy, government rule, democracy and judiciary”. Khan also called on every individual to play their role in stopping this descent towards the country’s ruin.

    “It is my message for the nation that I will give any sacrifice required for actual freedom but will never compromise on my or my nation’s freedom,” the former Pakistan PM said. The cricketer-politician further alleged that he has been kept behind bars for the past nine months due to “fake and concocted cases”.

    “I will remain in jail if I have to for nine more years, or more, but I will never strike a deal with those who have enslaved my nation,” he said in his message.

    On April 25, 1996, Chairman Imran Khan laid the foundation of Pakistan Movement on the principles of justice, humanity and self-control. Despite the hardships, difficulties and continuing oppression and exploitation, Pakistan Movement continues its patient struggle for the real freedom of Pakistan. #28YearsOfStruggle pic.twitter.com/DCAgkir1hS — Imran Khan (@ImranKhanPTI) April 25, 2024


    Since losing power in April 2022, the 71-year-old former cricketer-politician has been found guilty in at least four cases. Khan is currently lodged in Adiala Jail in Rawalpindi because of these convictions. After disagreements with the powerful military, Khan’s political party has faced a crackdown. Many party members have been arrested or left the party after violence erupted following Khan’s arrest last year.

    Khan’s party leader, Shehryar Afridi, recently said they are willing to talk with the Army chief and other military leaders for the country’s security. They won’t talk with other political parties like the PPP or PML-N. Afridi called these parties “rejected” and said they can only talk with the military leadership. He also said that if these parties abandon their positions, then PTI will decide whether to work with them or not.

    Afridi mentioned that Khan wanted to talk with the military from the beginning, but there was no response. If there had been a response, they would have made it public.

    Earlier, PTI leader Barrister Gohar Ali Khan said Khan was being pressured to accept a deal, but PTI denied having any secret talks with the military. In the February 8 election, independent candidates supported by PTI won over 90 seats in the National Assembly. However, the PMN-L and PPP formed an alliance after the election, keeping Khan’s party from forming a government.”

  • ‘If Anything Happens To My Wife Bushra Bibi…’: Ex-Pak PM Imran Khan Warns Army Chief Asim Munir | world news

    ISLAMABAD: Former Prime Minister of Pakistan, Imran Khan, who is currently detained at the Adiala Jail, has made strong allegations against Army Chief General Asim Munir, directly linking him to the incarceration of his wife, Bushra Bibi. The 49-year-old Bibi, facing charges in a corruption case and an illegal marriage with Khan, is currently held at their residence in Bani Gala, Islamabad. In a statement conveyed to journalists via his official social media account on He vehemently warned against any harm befalling his wife, asserting relentless pursuit of General Munir, vowing, “If anything happens to my wife, I will not leave Asim Munir as long as I am alive.”

    The case of the founding chairman of the Tehri Insaf Imran Khan speaking to the journalists in the jail: “At the last hearing, the name of the king of the jungle was taken, so today the walls have been made by installing additional glasses in the court,

    There is law of the jungle in the country and all this is being done by the king of the jungle – If the king of the jungle wants, then Nawaz Sharif can… — Imran Khan (@ImranKhanPTI) April 17, 2024


    Amidst his accusations, Khan painted a grim picture of Pakistan’s current state, denouncing a perceived ‘law of the jungle’ prevailing under the helm of powerful figures. He lambasted the selective application of justice, contrasting the clemency extended to political rivals like Nawaz Sharif with the swift condemnation faced by himself and his party. “If the king of the jungle wants, all the cases of Nawaz Sharif are forgiven, and when he wants, we are punished in three cases in five days,” he alleged.

    Touching upon economic matters, Khan advocated for investment-driven stability, critiquing the reliance on IMF loans and emphasizing the need for a conductive legal framework to attract investments. He cited the recent clash between police and army in Punjab’s Bahawalnagar region, highlighting what he deemed as preferential treatment towards the military, further underscoring the erosion of the rule of law.

    Additionally, Khan lamented the alleged obstructionism faced by his party in electoral processes, framing resistance against oppression as a form of righteous struggle. He urged party members to safeguard each vote in upcoming by-elections, framing the act as a form of resistance against perceived injustices.

    While Khan’s accusations reverberate, the army has yet to respond to these weighty allegations, leaving a cloud of uncertainty hovering over the already tense political landscape.

  • Who Is Mian Javed Latif? Senior Nawaz Sharif Party Leader Who Has Called Shehbaz A 'Puppet' Of Military | world news

    LAHORE: A senior Pakistani politician has stirred a big controversy by making a bold statement against the incumbent PML-N government in the country that has caught everyone's attention. Mian Javed Latif – the man at the center of the controversy – is a close aide of former Pakistan prime minister Nawaz Sharif. He has suggested that the current government led by the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) is merely a “puppet” regime, indirectly implying that the military holds the reins.

    Latif, a stalwart from Nawaz Sharif's PML-N and a former federal minister, made these remarks during a television interview. He pointed out that the PML-N failed to secure a simple majority in the National Assembly during the recent general elections. Latif asserted that the current government is effectively controlled by the military, regardless of which party appears to be in power.

    PML-N Mum Over 'Puppet' Remark

    Despite the significance of Latif's statements, the PML-N has not officially responded. This is the first time a senior leader from the ruling party has openly acknowledged the government's status as a “puppet setup” orchestrated by the military.

    In the aftermath of the February polls, where independent candidates supported by Imran Khan's Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) emerged victorious, the PML-N formed a coalition with the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) and other smaller parties. This alliance secured key positions in the government, including the prime ministerial and presidential posts.

    Allegations Of Rigging In Pakistan Polls

    Imran Khan and PTI have persistently accused the military establishment of electoral manipulation, labeling the elections as massively rigged. Pakistan has a history of military involvement in governance, either directly or indirectly.

    During the television interview, Latif stood by his remarks despite being questioned by the anchor. He insisted that he was speaking the truth, maintaining his stance even when prompted about potential personal motivations.

    Who Is Mian Javed Latif?

    Mian Javed Latif, born on January 1, 1964, in Sheikhupura, is a seasoned Pakistani politician. He has been associated with the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) since 2008 and has consistently won elections, serving as a member of the National Assembly. Latif comes from a politically active family background, with his father also a politician. He has held various positions within the PML-N and has contested and won seats in multiple general elections, displaying a strong electoral track record.

    Latif has faced controversies despite his political successes, including a public altercation with fellow politician Murad Saeed in 2017. However, he later apologized for his actions. Mian Javed Latif's recent comments have sparked debate and scrutiny within Pakistani political circles, highlighting the ongoing tensions between civilian leadership and military influence in the country's governance.

  • Pakistan Elections 2024: With No Clear Winner In Sight, Political Parties Begin ‘Wheeling And Dealing’ world news

    Islamabad: The recent elections in Pakistan have left the political landscape in uncertainty, with no clear winner emerging as the counting of votes nears completion. Despite the lack of a decisive outcome, major political parties have already begun negotiations and discussions in an attempt to secure enough support to form governments at both the national and provincial levels.

    PML-N Takes Initiative

    Nawaz Sharif, the leader of the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), has assigned his brother, former Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, to initiate talks with key parties like the PPP and MQM-P to explore possibilities of forming alliances.

    Previous Coalition Dynamics

    Interestingly, the PML-N and PPP were previously part of the ruling coalition government following Imran Khan’s removal in April 2022. However, tensions between the two parties escalated during the election campaign, complicating the path to coalition-building.

    Independent Candidates In The Lead

    Preliminary results suggest that independent candidates, largely supported by the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaaf (PTI), are leading on a significant number of seats. This has added complexity to the political equation, requiring parties to negotiate and strategize effectively.

    Coalition Building Efforts

    Shehbaz Sharif has reportedly met with PPP leaders – Asif Ali Zardari and Bilawal Bhutto – at the residence of Punjab caretaker Chief Minister Mohsin Naqvi to discuss the election results and potential post-election scenarios, indicating a willingness to explore coalition possibilities.

    MQM-P’s Exploring All Options

    The MQM-P, initially inclined to support Nawaz Sharif, is reassessing its options in light of the electoral outcomes. The party’s convener, Siddiqui has extended invitations to independent candidates to join forces, signaling a shift in strategy.

    Delay In Declaring Election Results

    While political manoeuvring unfolds, concerns have been raised regarding the fairness of the electoral process. Criticisms from international actors, including the United States, the United Kingdom, and the European Union, highlight issues such as violence, alleged lack of fairness, and disruptions like internet outages during the voting process.

    Imran Khan’s Victory Speech

    Former Prime Minister Imran Khan, despite facing criticism over the handling of the elections, has released a statement claiming victory, citing a high voter turnout as evidence of the failure of his opponents’ strategies. In his AI-enabled voice, Khan said that the ‘London Plan’ of Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) supremo Nawaz Sharif failed with the massive turnout of voters on polling day.

    In a related development, Imran Khan was granted bail in 12 cases related to the May 9 riots by an anti-terrorism court (ATC) in Rawalpindi, according to The Express Tribune. Additionally, Khan’s close aide and the former foreign minister of Pakistan, Shah Mahmud Qureshi was also granted bail in 13 cases, the daily reported.

    Imran was also granted bail in the GHQ and Army Museum attacks, with the court requiring a PKR0.1 million surety bond in all 12 cases. The bail applications were considered by ATC Judge Malik Ejaz Asif. The court ruled that there was no rationale for keeping the PTI founder in custody, and all suspects in the May 9 cases were granted bail.

    With no clear winner emerging from the elections, Pakistan finds itself in a phase of political uncertainty and negotiation, as parties strive to form viable coalitions amid concerns about the electoral process’s integrity.

  • Amid Announcement Of Pakistan Election Results, Imran Khan Gets Bail In May 9-Linked Violence Cases | world news

    Islamabad: Former Pakistan Prime Minister, Imran Khan was granted bail in 12 cases related to May 9 riots by an anti-terrorism court (ATC) in Rawalpindi, according to The Express Tribune. Additionally, Khan’s close aide and the former foreign minister of Pakistan, Shah Mahmud Qureshi was granted bail in 13 cases, the daily reported.

    Imran was also granted bail in the GHQ and Army Museum attacks, with the court requiring a PKR0.1 million surety bond in all 12 cases. The bail applications were considered by ATC Judge Malik Ejaz Asif. The court ruled that there was no rationale for keeping the PTI founder in custody, and all suspects in the May 9 cases were granted bail.

    Imran and Qureshi were indicted as per charges on February 6. The duo was brought before the court, and the former prime minister informed the judge that he had been unjustly arrested on May 9 from the grounds of the Islamabad High Court (IHC), according to The Express Tribune.

    Imran was booked in many cases relating to the rioting that erupted throughout the country on May 9, following his detention in a corruption case. The complaints filed in Rawalpindi included an attack on the gate of General Headquarters (GHQ), rioting at a sensitive institution’s office, and other incidents.

    He rejected the claims included in the cases’ first information reports (FIRs). It should be mentioned that, following his release from Adiala jail, PTI leader Shah Mehmood Qureshi was hauled away by Punjab police in connection with the attack on the GHQ, according to The Express Tribune.

    In July last year, a high-level joint investigative team (JIT) looking into the May 9 violence decided to designate the former premier in two terrorist cases, including an attack on GHQ.

    With the inclusion of new sections to the proceedings, the PTI head was charged with planning and inciting violence. The bail has been granted to Imran Khan at a time when the results of the Pakistan General Elections that took place on February 8 are highly anticipated.

    The counting for the elections held on Thursday is underway, and Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) has emerged as the single-largest party but is trailing behind the independent candidates, mostly backed by Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaaf (PTI). .

    Meanwhile, amid the Election Commission of Pakistan drawing flak over the delay in declaration of the results of the general elections, former PM and Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan on Saturday released a ‘victory speech’ in his AI- enabled voice, saying that the ‘London Plan’ of Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) supremo Nawaz Sharif failed with the massive turnout of voters on polling day, as he also claimed victory in the general elections.

    Furthermore, Nawaz Sharif also announced his intention to form a united government with the help of his former allies – Pakistan Peoples Party, Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (F) and Muttahida Qaumi Movement (Pakistan) amid a fractured mandate.

    Nawaz and his brother Shehbaz Sharif’s party, the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), and Bilawal Bhutto Zardari’s Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) have agreed to form a coalition government in the Center and Punjab, Geo TV reported on Saturday.

    Elections were held for 265 seats in the national assembly and a political party needs 133 seats for a simple majority. Voting in Pakistan concluded at 5 pm on Thursday amid escalating militant attacks and allegations of electoral misconduct.

    After the parliamentary polls, the newly elected parliament will select a prime minister. If no single party secures a majority, the party with the largest portion of assembly seats can form a coalition government.

    Meanwhile, a senior aide of Pakistan ex-PM Imran Khan said if complete poll results are not announced by tonight, we will hold peaceful protests tomorrow, Reuters reported.

  • Pakistan Elections 2024: Imran Khan-Backed Candidates Leading In Early Trends, Giving Tough Fight To Nawaz Sharif’s PML-N | world news

    ISLAMABAD: Candidates supported by imprisoned former Pakistan premier Imran Khan’s Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party are proving to be formidable opponents to those backed by three-time former prime minister Nawaz Sharif’s Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) as most of them are said to be leading in the early trends. Despite sporadic violence marring the polling process, the determination of voters remained steadfast as they exercised their democratic rights amid heightened security measures.

    Even though the illegitimate, fascist regime tried every low tactic to scare & dissuade people from voting, the people of Pakistan came out today in unprecedented numbers to vehemently reject the system of oppression, lawlessness & fraud!

    This is a huge victory for Imran Khan,… pic.twitter.com/h8rglm02r1 — PTI (@PTIofficial) February 8, 2024


    The polling process faced hurdles due to sporadic violence and connectivity issues across the country. Mobile and internet services were suspended to thwart potential terror attacks, underlining the gravity of security concerns during these elections. Despite these challenges, polling stations opened promptly at 8 am, with voting proceeding smoothly until 5 pm, albeit with delays in some areas.

    Imran’s message for supporters: ‘Guard your vote tonight’


    Till the complete results are received, remain peacefully present outside the offices of the Returning Officers and cast your vote.

    Do not leave RO office without complete results.

    Let us vote tonight, we will free the generations of Pakistan from slavery pic.twitter.com/zS2KwWUADN — Imran Khan (@ImranKhanPTI) February 8, 2024


    Polling Amid Tight Security

    Approximately 650,000 security personnel were deployed nationwide to ensure the safety and security of voters and election proceedings. However, the tragic loss of four policemen in a terror attack underscores the persistent threats faced by security forces during such critical events.

    Counting Underway Amidst Transparency Concerns

    After the voting concluded, the attention has now turned to the meticulous counting process supervised by presiding officers at various polling stations. The transparency of this process has come under scrutiny, especially amid the disruption of cellular and internet services, raising concerns about the integrity of the electoral process.

    Political Landscape And Electoral Dynamics

    With Imran Khan’s incarceration, Nawaz Sharif’s PML-N was expected to emerge as a prominent force in these elections. However, Khan’s PTI candidates, contesting independently due to the denial of their party’s iconic cricket ‘bat’ symbol, are determined to make their mark despite the odds.

    Challenges Ahead For the New Government

    The incoming government in Pakistan will inherit significant challenges, including tackling resurgent militant groups and addressing the longstanding issue of terrorism. The resurgence of militant activity since 2021, coupled with ongoing threats from groups like the Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan and Baloch nationalists, underscores the complexities facing the country’s security apparatus.

    Allegations Of Electoral Tampering

    Amid reports of delayed results and allegations of electoral tampering, concerns about the integrity of the electoral process persist. PTI representatives have raised alarm over alleged irregularities, urging the election commission to ensure transparency and uphold the sanctity of the democratic process.


    Joint statement of Chief Organizer of Pakistan Movement, Omar Ayub Khan and Parliamentary Leader of Movement in the Senate, Barrister Ali Azfar, on behalf of Pakistan Movement, thanks the people for participating in large numbers in the election process on the appeal of Bani Chairman Imran Khan.

    History in the electoral process… pic.twitter.com/jsHPz63IbK — PTI (@PTIofficial) February 8, 2024


    Violence Mars Election Day

    Instances of violence marred election day, particularly in Karachi, where clashes between rival parties resulted in injuries and disruptions. The toll of poll-related violence serves as a stark reminder of the challenges associated with maintaining peace and order during elections.

    Despite the challenges, Pakistan’s security forces have been lauded for their efforts in ensuring the peaceful conduct of the elections. The Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) lauded the armed forces and law enforcement agencies for their pivotal role in maintaining security and upholding democratic principles.

    As the counting continues and results unfold, Pakistan navigates through a critical juncture in its democratic journey. Despite the hurdles and concerns, the resilience of the electoral process reflects the nation’s commitment to upholding democratic values ​​amid adversity.

  • Explained: Nawaz Sharif Or Bilawal Bhutto – Who Is Better Or India-Pakistan Relation | world news

    New Delhi: Pakistan is holding its 12th national general elections today on February 8, to elect a new government amid multiple crises. The country of 241 million people, which possesses nuclear weapons, faces political and economic turmoil, as well as the threat of terrorism. The outcome of the elections will have implications for Pakistan’s relations with India, its neighbor and rival.

    The main contenders in the Pakistan elections are Nawaz Sharif’s Pakistan Muslim League Nawaz (PML-N), Bilawal Bhutto Zardari’s Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), and Imran Khan’s Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI). PML-N is expected to be the largest party, followed by PPP, PTI, and other parties.

    Imran Khan, the former prime minister, is still in prison, while Nawaz Sharif is seen as the frontrunner for the top job. PTI is running without its famous cricket ‘bat’ symbol, after the Supreme Court confirmed the election commission’s decision to take it away.

    How India Views Pakistan Elections?

    India, which is also heading for its Lok Sabha elections by May, could pose more problems for Pakistan’s new government if the Narendra Modi-led government wins a strong majority. New Delhi has been keeping a close watch on its neighbour’s activities before the elections, especially the role of the Pakistan Army in picking the next prime minister.

    India has repeatedly expressed its worries about Pakistan’s continued support for terrorism, leading the Narendra Modi-led government to take a tougher approach on national security issues.

    Army’s Blessing For Nawaz Sharif

    The Pakistan Army’s sway over the country’s politics is well-known, with accusations of election rigging to favor its chosen candidates. In the 2018 elections, the Pakistan Army effectively “picked” Imran Khan, a former cricket star-turned-politician, to replace Nawaz Sharif as the leader of the PML(N).

    Imran Khan became the prime minister after Nawaz Sharif’s conviction, but Nawaz Sharif was later allowed to leave the country, and came back in October 2023, when all of a sudden all the cases against him disappeared. Experts have suggested that this time, Nawaz Sharif has the army’s support.

    In the Pakistan election 2024, Pakistan Army chief general Asim Munir will strengthen his control over the political leadership of the country. The elections are important as for the first time in Pakistan’s history, the popularity of a civilian leader (Imran Khan) challenged the army’s dominance.

    Experts’ Take On Pak Elections

    Former Indian diplomat KP Fabian has said that the elections in Pakistan will be neither free nor fair, and that the real power will be held by the army chief. He said that whoever becomes prime minister, the army chief will have the final say. He also said that Pakistan is in deep disarray politically, economically, and socially because of terrorism.

    He criticized the imprisonment of Imran Khan and his wife, saying that the charges against him do not stand scrutiny. He also said that the justice system in Pakistan has disappeared.

    Meanwhile, Former Indian High Commissioner to Pakistan Ajay Bisaria has said that the elections are the most predictable and the most rigged, because the army is manipulating the process to get the government it wants. He said that it is widely expected that Nawaz Sharif and his PML-N party will be the army’s choice. He said that this is fairly accurate.

  • Ex-Pakistan PM Imran Khan, Wife Bushra Bibi Get 14 Years Jail Term In Toshakhana Case | world news

    Islamabad: In another stunning development shaking Pakistan’s political landscape, former Prime Minister Imran Khan and his wife, Bushra Bibi, were on Wednesday sentenced to a 14-year prison term with rigorous punishment in the infamous Toshakhana case.

    Court Ruling And Penalties

    An Islamabad accountability court, in a decisive move, not only sentenced Khan and Bibi but also barred them from holding any public office for 10 years. Additionally, they were slapped with a hefty fine amounting to Rs 787 million, as reported by Pakistan’s Dawn.

    This verdict swiftly followed another significant ruling just the day before, where Khan and his Foreign Minister, Shah Mehmood Qureshi, received a 10-year imprisonment sentence for breaching state secrets. These legal pronouncements occurred amid heightened tensions and just days before the crucial general elections scheduled for February 8.

    Background: What is the Toshakhana Case?

    The Toshakhana case, which has been a focal point of legal scrutiny, stems from allegations lodged by Pakistan’s coalition government, spearheaded by the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N). The accusations revolved around Khan’s purported failure to disclose complete information regarding gifts received through Toshakhana and the alleged clandestine sale of certain items.

    Toshakhana, a department under Pakistan’s cabinet division, is tasked with housing gifts and valuables bestowed upon officials, who are mandated to report all such acquisitions to the department.

    During Khan’s tenure as Prime Minister, he reportedly received numerous gifts, yet refrained from disclosing details citing potential diplomatic repercussions. However, Pakistan’s Information Minister, Marriyum Aurangzeb, alleged that Khan profited from the sale of state gifts, pocketing a substantial sum.

    Legal Proceedings And Verdict

    The legal saga unfolded with Khan’s indictment earlier last month by Pakistan’s anti-corruption court, acting upon charges pressed by the National Accountability Bureau (NAB). Khan, already incarcerated in connection to the Al-Qadir Trust case, found himself further entangled in legal complexities.

    In a written response submitted to the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) in September 2023, Khan acknowledged selling several gifts received during his tenure, divulging transactions totaling millions. This admission, coupled with subsequent investigations, led to his disqualification from the assembly for a five-year term by the ECP in October of the same year.

    As the political landscape continues to convulse under the weight of legal entanglements, Khan’s once-towering stature faces profound erosion, while questions linger over the future trajectory of Pakistan’s governance.

  • Ex-Pakistan PM Imran Khan, Shah Mahmood Qureshi Sentenced To 10 Years In Jail In Cipher Case | world news

    ISLAMABAD: In a big political development, former Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan and ex-Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi have been sentenced to 10 years in jail in the Cipher case, just days ahead of the general elections in the country. The Cipher case pertains to a diplomatic document that the Federal Investigation Agency’s charge sheet alleges was never returned by Imran. The verdict was announced by special court Judge Abul Hasnat Zulqarnain during a hearing held at the Adiala Jail in Rawalpindi, according to Pakistani media reports.

    PTI founder Imran Khan & Shah Mehmood Qureshi have been given 10-year prison sentences in the Cipher case, reports Pakistan media.

    (file photos) pic.twitter.com/EieM801kgm — ANI (@ANI) January 30, 2024

    Verdict Shakes Islamabad: Imran, Qureshi Face 10-Year Jail Term

    Established under the Official Secrets Act, a special court delivered the verdict on Tuesday, citing the duo’s involvement in withholding a crucial diplomatic document. The Federal Investigation Agency’s charge sheet alleges Imran Khan failed to return the document, sparking the legal turmoil.

    PTI’s Allegations And General Elections

    Amid allegations by the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) that the document contained a veiled threat from the United States aimed at toppling Imran Khan’s premiership, the timing of the verdict, just days ahead of the February 8 general elections, amplifies the political tensions gripping the nation. Notably, the PTI is navigating these turbulent waters sans an electoral symbol, amid a state-led crackdown on the party.

    Legal Battle

    December witnessed the Supreme Court granting post-arrest bails to Imran Khan and Shah Mahmood Qureshi, offering a brief respite. However, their legal battles persisted, with Qureshi’s anticipated release thwarted by a fresh legal entanglement on May 9. Justice Miangul Hasan Aurangzeb’s intervention temporarily halted the proceedings, citing legal irregularities in the case.

    Fresh Trial Against Imran, Qureshi

    The judicial saga took another twist as the special court recommenced the Cipher trial at Adiala district jail last month. Imran and Qureshi, facing indictment for the second time, maintained their innocence, echoing their initial plea despite mounting legal pressure. The Islamabad High Court’s rebuke of the government’s handling of the case further underlined the tumult surrounding the trial.

    Allegations Of Bias And Government Interference

    As state-appointed counsels assumed responsibility due to the absence of previously designated representatives, Imran Khan decried the trial as a farce, citing concerns of bias with both prosecution and defense teams aligning with the government. Such claims further fueled the contentious nature of the proceedings, amplifying calls for judicial transparency and impartiality.

    The ramifications of this landmark verdict resonate far beyond the confines of the courtroom, casting a long shadow over Pakistan’s political landscape and igniting debates on accountability, transparency, and the rule of law.