Imran Khan, the Chairman of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), has announced that Shah Mehmood Qureshi, the Vice Chairman of PTI, would assume party leadership in the event of his disqualification by a court.
Khan asserted during a Saturday meeting with journalists and lawyers at his residence in Zaman Park, Lahore. He stated, “In the event of my disqualification, Shah Mehmood Qureshi will spearhead the party.”
This comes as Khan, the leader of PTI, embroiled in various legal cases, from corruption to terrorism, following his removal from power in April of the previous year.
On May 9, Khan was apprehended concerning a case involving the Al-Qadir Trust, valued at 190 million pounds. The arrest was executed by Rangers personnel, acting on arrest warrants issued by the National Accountability Bureau (NAB). He was released approximately four days later when the Supreme Court deemed his arrest unlawful.
Following Khan’s May 9 arrest, violent protests erupted nationwide, with supporters vandalizing and setting fire to defense and public facilities nationwide.
The National Security Committee (NSC), comprised of leading civil and military figures, subsequently pledged to prosecute the rioters under pertinent legislation, including the Army Act.
In response to the widespread exodus of leaders from his party following the May 9 violence, Khan remained defiant, asserting that the current circumstances would soon alter. He hinted at a significant surprise in the days ahead.
Khan admitted that some party leaders were departing under duress while others had been unmasked. Despite this, he affirmed that the youth remains his party’s key strength and deserves the ticket. He projected confidence that PTI would triumph in the upcoming general elections, despite the departure of key party leaders.
In response to speculation regarding the potential resignation of the PTI-backed president, Khan assured that Arif Alvi would continue to perform his duties in accordance with the Constitution.
Khan claimed a plot had been hatched to “detain, disqualify, and potentially assassinate him.”
In response to accusations that he had instructed his party members to assault military installations, Khan categorically denied the allegations, insisting that he never endorsed violent or destructive actions. He reiterated his support for the military: “There is no conflict with the army; this army is ours.”
Khan criticized the coalition government for its detrimental impact on the nation’s economy, insisting that the only solution to the current crisis is to hold elections.
