Defence Minister Khawaja Asif asserted that Imran Khan, the founder of PTI, should face military trial, emphasizing that he did not come from “the heavens.” Speaking on Aaj News’ “News Insight” with Amir Zia, Asif pointed out that he was charged under Article 6 (high treason) during Khan’s tenure and believes Khan should be held to the same standard.
Asif reiterated this stance from a previous interview but did not provide specific evidence against the former prime minister. On September 5, the military hinted at the possibility of a military trial for Khan, warning that using military personnel for personal or political gain would lead to legal repercussions. Military spokesman Lt Gen Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry stated that those who exploit individuals under the Army Act would face the law.
Khan has expressed concerns about a potential military trial, especially following the arrest of former spymaster Lieutenant General Faiz Hameed. He has approached the Islamabad High Court regarding the cases linked to the May 9 protests, during which the federal government stated that a military trial was not currently under consideration.
Asif noted that the events of May 9 could indeed bring Khan’s case before military courts, suggesting that if connections to the attacks on military installations are established, he should be tried accordingly.
Columnist Javed Chaudhry, appearing on Rubaroo, echoed similar sentiments, linking the issue to the recent passage of the 26th Constitutional Amendment and suggesting that it has stabilized the speculative environment in the country.
Regarding US lawmakers advocating for Khan’s release, Asif criticized their lack of attention to international issues like Israeli actions in Gaza and Lebanon, dismissing their comments as lacking credibility. He asserted that the US’s political landscape is “dirtier than that of Pakistan.”
When asked about Nawaz Sharif’s media presence, Asif clarified that there were no reports of him being out of the limelight, asserting that the PML-N remains strong due to Sharif’s leadership and that his return to media could overshadow current leaders.
