In a recent discussion on Geo News’ show “Capital Talk,” President Arif Alvi expressed that Imran Khan, the chairman of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), never opposed the appointment of Chief of Army Staff (COAS), General Asim Munir.
“Imran Khan advised me to assure General Bajwa that he would respect any decision made within the institution regarding its future leadership,” stated President Alvi.
Despite Khan’s criticism of the current military leadership and his accusations of a high-ranking military officer’s purported involvement in an assassination attempt on November 3, 2022, he maintains a non-interference stance toward the military institution’s affairs. “I have consistently stated that I will not meddle in the institution’s affairs,” Khan has expressed.
Meanwhile, President Alvi called on Imran Khan to publicly condemn the violent incidents on May 9, in which public properties and military installations were attacked. Despite the backlash, PTI leadership, including Khan himself, has condemned these attacks, advocating for a Supreme Court-led investigation.
The turbulence erupted on May 9, 2023, following Khan’s arrest in the Al-Qadir Trust case, leading to at least 10 fatalities and numerous injuries. This led to a widespread clampdown, with thousands of PTI supporters arrested. The military has deemed the day a “dark chapter” following these attacks on army installations.
The government and the military have jointly pledged to prosecute the vandals under the Pakistan Army Act, Official Secrets Act, and other relevant laws. Although some human rights organizations and government figures have objected to trying civilians under military law, there’s a shared agreement that the accused should undergo due process.
In the interview, President Alvi added that respecting the suspects’ human rights during the trials and avoiding any form of torture is crucial. “The people involved should face justice by the law,” he emphasized.
 General Asim Munir's appointment and calls for Khan's condemnation of May 9th attacks. This reveals PTI leadership's stance on military matters and their response to national crises){kind=link}