Former Prime Minister Imran Khan, currently imprisoned on charges he claims are politically motivated, stated on Sunday that it would be “foolish” not to maintain “excellent” relations with the military. In written responses to Reuters, Khan emphasized the importance of fostering a relationship with the army due to Pakistan’s strategic position and the military’s substantial role in the private sector.
As he approaches the anniversary of his imprisonment on various charges, including corruption and leaking state secrets, Khan clarified that his criticisms have been aimed at individuals rather than the military institution itself. He stressed that the missteps of military leadership should not tarnish the entire institution.
Also Read: Imran Khan Forms Committee to Review Corruption in K-P
Khan also expressed his willingness to engage in “conditional negotiations” with the military, contingent upon “clean and transparent” elections and the dropping of “bogus” cases against his supporters. However, he did not specify what topics he would want to discuss with the military.
The former cricket star, who lost his position through a parliamentary vote of no confidence, accused the army of backing politically motivated cases against him—a claim the military has denied. Khan indicated that while dialogue with the current coalition government of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif might be futile, engaging with those who hold actual power could be more productive.
The military has previously dismissed any talks with Khan, who has been a focal point of political instability in Pakistan. His imprisonment has exacerbated the country’s political and economic crises, contributing to the need for stringent fiscal measures imposed by the International Monetary Fund (IMF). Khan rejected the notion of an out-of-court settlement unless it acknowledges his party’s victory in the disputed February election, which he described as the most rigged in Pakistan’s history.
The interior ministry has also imposed an indefinite nationwide curfew starting at 6 p.m. local time on Sunday.
