ISLAMABAD: Jailed former Prime Minister Imran Khan has voiced serious concerns about the state of democracy in Pakistan, suggesting that the nation is on the verge of losing its democracy and freedom.
Speaking informally with journalists at Adiala Jail, Imran Khan declared, “In the struggle for freedom, sacrifices are necessary,” and vowed to continue resisting what he described as the “enslavement” of the country. He emphasized his willingness to sacrifice his life rather than accept oppression.
Khan announced that the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) plans to hold a rally in Lahore on September 21, regardless of whether authorities permit it. He noted that despite previous attempts to obstruct protests, such as barricades in Islamabad, the public had turned out in large numbers. He expressed concern about the situation in Punjab, questioning if the province had become a “police state” where political rallies are being repressed.
The PTI founder also criticized the removal of PTI members from Parliament without the Speaker’s consent. He warned that such actions could set a precedent for future political repression.
While acknowledging that similar incidents occurred during his own tenure, Khan stressed that no one had ever been removed from Parliament in this manner before.
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Regarding cases against political figures like Rana Sanaullah, Khan defended his stance, explaining that the Anti-Narcotics Force (ANF) presented the evidence against the PML-N leader during his government. He asserted that his administration had no role in framing the charges and that all evidence was provided by ANF.
Khan also raised concerns about human rights violations, electoral fraud, and media freedom, noting that journalists and judges are facing intimidation. He warned that any attempts to silence PTI, especially in relation to proposed constitutional amendments, would be met with vigorous resistance and street protests.
He further criticized the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) and the Pakistan People’s Party (PPP), accusing them of abandoning true political values and yielding to external pressures, while invoking their own slogans of “respect the vote.”
