Former Prime Minister Imran Khan of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party anticipates another potential arrest despite acquiring necessary bails in a series of allegations against him. Khan expressed his concerns publicly via Twitter, ahead of his Tuesday appointment with the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) over the Al-Qadir Trust case.
“On acquiring all the necessary bails, the prevailing circumstances suggest I could face arrest once more,” stated Khan.
Previously, on May 9, the PTI leader was apprehended at Islamabad High Court during the Al-Qadir Trust case by Rangers, following directives from the anti-corruption watchdog. Khan’s detention led to nationwide uproar, causing public property and military installations damage during protests.
The government blamed Imran Khan for instigating the demonstrations, leading to the arrest of numerous PTI members and supporters. The existing administration accuses Khan and his wife, Bushra Bibi, of accepting substantial land gifts from a property magnate via the Al-Qadir Trust, constituting bribery.
Established by Khan and his wife in 2018 during his term as Prime Minister, the Al-Qadir Trust is a non-governmental welfare organisation operating a university focusing on spirituality and Islamic teachings located outside Islamabad.
On Monday’s Twitter space, Khan called upon his followers to maintain peace, warning against giving authorities an excuse to initiate another crackdown.
“If the events escalate to violence, it provides an opportunity for further crackdowns. We must always protest peacefully,” the PTI chief urged.
Khan predicted minimal uproar following his possible arrest, given the current PTI leadership is largely imprisoned or in hiding. He also reiterated his commitment to fair and transparent elections and dismissed any conflicts with the military.
Read More: Imran Khan Anticipates Arrest Amidst Allegations of Democratic Disruption
He explained, “There was no conflict with the army before, and there isn’t one now. All I am advocating for are fair elections.”
Imran Khan likened criticism of the military to admonishing his own children, asserting his commitment to maintaining a strong army. He blamed the “spoilers” in the May 9 protests for the assault on military installations, particularly targeting the Lahore corps commander’s residence. He characterized these violent actions as “pre-planned” and requested an independent inquiry into the events.
The former premier expressed his faith in the Supreme Court, suggesting it would uphold justice and protect fundamental rights. He also touted the popularity of the PTI, stating, “PTI’s popularity is above 70 per cent. If elections were held today, PTI could exceed a two-thirds majority.”
Imran Khan denounced the Toshakhana (gifts depository) case as “absolutely absurd.” He also expressed concerns about the treatment of anchorperson Imran Riaz Khan in custody.
Khan characterized the interim Punjab government as a proxy of the Pakistan Democratic Movement and the military establishment. He vowed to press charges against them when the opportunity arises. He also critiqued the crackdown against the PTI, asserting that political parties cannot be eradicated in this way.
In his concluding remarks, Khan alleged that former COAS General (retd) Qamar Javed Bajwa, had internally aligned with PPP Co-chairman Asif Ali Zardari and the Sharifs following his extension.
Imran Khan claimed, “Despite knowing that he was undermining me, I continued to work with him.”
