Imran Khan, the founder of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) and former prime minister, issued a conditional apology on Wednesday regarding the events of May 9. Speaking to the media after a hearing in Adiala Jail concerning the £190 million reference, Khan emphasized the need for a comprehensive investigation through the release of CCTV footage.
Khan asserted that if the footage reveals any PTI members involved in the incidents, he would take strict measures against them, including expulsion from the party and appropriate penalties. He stated, “The CCTV footage from May 9 should be released first. If members of my party are found responsible, they will be expelled and punished.“
In discussing the role of the military, Khan drew a comparison to the 1971 Bangladesh conflict, noting that the army in Bangladesh supported its people by refusing to fire on them. He suggested that the military should prioritize the well-being of its citizens in Pakistan as well.
On August 4, during an interview with Reuters, Khan emphasized the importance of maintaining good relations with the military, describing it as “foolish” to neglect this relationship. Marking one year of his imprisonment on August 5, Khan reiterated his belief in the necessity of strengthening ties with the military due to Pakistan’s strategic location and the military’s significant role in the country’s private sector.
While Khan expressed no personal grievances towards the United States, he maintains that the US played a role in his ousting through the 2022 no-confidence vote. He underscored that promoting better relations with the military is crucial given Pakistan’s strategic position and the military’s influence.
