Former army chief General (retired) Qamar Javed Bajwa on Friday dismissed the allegations made by Bushra Bibi, the wife of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan, against Saudi Arabia as “baseless.”
He emphasized that national interests should not be jeopardized for political gain through unfounded accusations. Earlier, Bushra Bibi had released a rare video message in which she accused Saudi Arabia of being involved in the removal of her husband’s government.
She claimed that when Imran Khan visited Madina “barefoot,” the then-army chief, Gen (retd) Bajwa, began receiving calls from Saudi officials, suggesting their involvement in his ouster. Bushra Bibi further alleged that Saudi officials had asked Bajwa, “Who is this person you have brought with you […] we don’t want such personalities,” which, according to her, led to a smear campaign and the labeling of Imran Khan as a “Jewish agent.”
Her comments provoked strong criticism from government officials, who described her statement as a “suicide attack” on Pakistan’s relations with Saudi Arabia.
Bushra Bibi had accompanied her husband during visits to Saudi Arabia from 2018 to 2021.
In response, Gen (retd) Bajwa, in a statement issued on Friday, categorically denied the allegations, stating that Saudi Arabia had always been a “friend and benefactor” to Pakistan, providing unwavering support throughout history, including during PTI’s time in power. He further described Bushra Bibi’s remarks as “totally baseless.”
