Imran Khan, the founder of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), remarked that the martial law regimes of former military rulers Pervez Musharraf and Zia-ul-Haq were “better” than the current democratic government.
During a court appearance at Rawalpindi’s Adiala Jail on Friday, Khan, who is facing a £190 million case, contrasted the supporters of democracy with those he claimed are influenced solely by authority.
The former prime minister, incarcerated for over a year, has consistently criticized Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s government. He alleges it lacks legitimacy due to supposed meddling in the February 8 elections.
While Khan has refused to engage with ruling parties, he showed openness to dialogues with the military establishment. Last month, he justified this stance by pointing to the military’s significant private sector role and Pakistan’s strategic location.
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“We are open to any dialogue that could help improve the dire situation in Pakistan,” Khan stated.
Regarding PTI’s rally, Khan criticized the denial of permission to hold the event at the Minar-e-Pakistan, noting that such permission was previously granted to JUI-F leader Maulana Fazlur Rehman. Instead, PTI was permitted to rally at Kahna under strict conditions.
Khan also addressed proposed constitutional amendments by the current government, claiming they would directly benefit the chief justice.
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Islamabad’s Special Accountability Court Judge Nasir Javed Rana adjourned the hearing of the Al-Qadir Trust reference involving Khan and his wife, Bushra Bibi, until September 24. During the session, Bushra Bibi’s lawyer, Usman Gul, cross-examined the investigating officer, Mian Umar Nadeem. The defence requested an adjournment, which was granted.
