EX-PM Imran Khan, the Chairman of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), has given his first detailed interview since being released on bail. He expressed his grave concerns over the current state of democracy in Pakistan, which he described as being at an “all-time low.”
Imran Khan stated that the judiciary is the “only hope” for restoring the rights and freedoms of the people. He raised alarm over the violation of fundamental rights in the country, which he claimed had reached unprecedented levels.
The former prime minister shared his own distressing experiences of being taken into custody, narrating how his residence had been raided by the police on two occasions.
Imran Khan emphasized the deteriorating condition of democracy in Pakistan and mentioned that around 150 cases had been lodged against him – a huge number of cases that had not been filed against any other politicians in the country.
He accused the government of fearing elections, as, according to him, they believed facing a significant defeat in the elections. The PTI chief claimed that the ruling coalition was only willing to hold elections if he was incarcerated or killed, revealing the extent of the political climate’s hostility.
Imran Khan expressed concerns about his safety and security, saying that there had been two assassination attempts on his life. He promptly condemned all forms of violence, including incidents of violence during protests by his party workers after his arrest on May 9.
Recounting the incident when he was arrested, he recalled a moment of confusion and said that he thought some individuals resembling commandos suddenly appeared for his security, but he soon realized that they were after him.
Khan said that due to threats to his life, a judge previously issued orders for his protection. He expressed dismay at the brutal treatment he received during his arrest, saying that the excessive force used left a lasting impression on him.
Despite the challenges he has faced, Imran Khan said that he has displayed unwavering determination and readiness to face imprisonment once again, maintaining that he is ready to go to jail again.
