Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder and former Prime Minister Imran Khan has alleged that the country is being transformed into a “banana republic” in an effort to suppress his party, stating that every major institution—including the judiciary—has been systematically weakened.
Speaking to the media outside Adiala Jail after meeting Khan, Advocate Faisal Chaudhry revealed that although six lawyers were listed for visitation, only Naeem Panjutha and Usman Gul were permitted entry. “I stepped aside so Naeem Panjutha could meet him. Khan is in good health but was informed that even his sisters were denied permission to visit,” Chaudhry said.
He added that several PTI leaders and legal representatives were barred from accessing the jail. “Only two names from the approved list were allowed in; all others were turned away,” he claimed.
During the meeting, Imran Khan reportedly stated that after the 26th Constitutional Amendment, the party’s legal team and leadership would formally address the Chief Justice regarding the legal challenges they face. He lamented that their court cases remain unheard and that his wife, Bushra Bibi, is being mistreated.
Imran Khan also dismissed rumors about ongoing negotiations with the establishment. According to Chaudhry, lawyers Usman Gul and Faisal Malik provided Khan with legal updates and discussed current political developments. He stressed that access to one’s family is a constitutional right, questioning why restrictions have now been imposed when in the past up to nine lawyers were allowed to meet him simultaneously.
Khan reiterated that both the establishment and PTI are essential for Pakistan’s progress, but emphasized that only political parties—not military institutions—have the capacity to unify the nation.
Chaudhry also conveyed Khan’s frustration over being denied interaction with party colleagues, noting that he last spoke to his children three weeks ago. Usman Gul informed him that the contempt of court petition would be heard on April 28.
Regarding the controversy over Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s Mines and Minerals Bill, Khan has requested a detailed briefing from the KP Chief Minister and senior leadership, warning that public concerns must be addressed to avoid future conflicts.
On the issue of Afghanistan and regional peace, Khan said he had spent three years working to foster cooperation with the Afghan government, insisting that terrorism could only be effectively countered through regional collaboration. He criticized the current government for delaying action, which he claims led to avoidable loss of life, including among military personnel. “These sacrifices remain unrecognized,” he said, noting that Pakistan still struggles to attract foreign investment.
Khan concluded by asserting that without the rule of law, economic development and foreign reserves are unattainable. He warned that attempts to dismantle PTI have damaged critical institutions such as the judiciary, Federal Investigation Agency (FIA), and the police.
