Jailed former Prime Minister Imran Khan has stated he will engage in negotiations only with Pakistan’s powerful establishment, dismissing any talks with the current government. Khan’s remarks came on September 3 from the Adiala Jail in Rawalpindi, where he is currently detained in connection with various cases, including the Toshakhana corruption case.
Khan criticized the government for using the events of May 9 as a diversionary tactic whenever talks are mentioned. He claimed that the ruling party raises the topic of violence from May 9 to avoid serious discussions, describing the government’s focus on this issue as an “insurance policy” to prevent its own collapse.
The former premier emphasized that he is open to dialogue but only with those who make the final decisions in Pakistan. His stance reflects a strategic choice to bypass the current administration, which he accuses of manipulating political processes to its advantage.
On May 9, violent protests erupted following Khan’s arrest by paramilitary forces from the Islamabad High Court. His supporters were accused of vandalizing several military installations and attacking the Army headquarters, which Khan suggests has been used by the government to distract from more pressing issues.
Khan also proposed forming a judicial commission to investigate the May 9 events and assign accountability. This move, he believes, would provide a clear path to addressing grievances related to the violence and political instability.
Amid these political developments, Khan has taken a moment to highlight his achievements outside politics. He expressed pride in his bid for the Chancellor position at Oxford University, which he sees as a significant accomplishment for Pakistan.
Additionally, Khan accused former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif of securing extra votes through questionable means. He also referenced Sharif’s political shifts, suggesting they could lead to records in the Guinness Book of World Records for their dramatic reversals and alignments.
Khan’s tenure as Prime Minister ended with his ouster in 2017, and his political career has been marked by controversies and legal battles. His arrest on August 5 last year followed a conviction in the Toshakhana case, and he has since been facing multiple legal challenges.
The ongoing political standoff and Khan’s firm stance on negotiations with only the establishment underscore the deepening political crisis in Pakistan, reflecting broader challenges in the country’s governance and stability.