LONDON (The Thursday Times) — Pakistan’s powerful military leadership has made it clear there are no plans to negotiate with the incarcerated former Prime Minister, Imran Khan, regarding any political deal or release arrangements. Currently held in Adiala Jail, Rawalpindi, Khan remains isolated from journalists, though The Guardian managed to submit questions through its legal team.
Since his arrest in August of last year, Khan reports no personal contact with military representatives, yet he maintains an openness to dialogue with Pakistan’s military establishment. Despite previously accusing the military of orchestrating his government’s downfall and contributing to his detention, Khan suggested a willingness to explore a deal. He insists any such engagement must prioritize democratic principles and the public interest rather than private or partisan gain, highlighting that he would prefer imprisonment over compromising his values.
Imran Khan’s legal battles
With over 100 cases against him, Khan asserts these charges are orchestrated by his political and military adversaries who currently dominate Pakistan’s governance. Yet, his recent statements reflect a shift towards conciliation. This summer, he publicly proposed negotiations with the military contingent upon transparent elections, portraying himself as a democratic advocate against an alleged anti-democratic campaign.
In contrast, senior military officials have refuted Khan’s attempts to engage in backdoor negotiations. Military leaders reportedly suggested that Khan should face his legal proceedings in court without expecting intervention or special treatment. They argue that while Khan champions the rule of law for others, he seeks to evade it for himself.
Military influence on government affairs
Under the administration of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, widely considered to have military backing, the army chief’s tenure was extended to five years. Critics, including Khan’s Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), argue that recent constitutional amendments by the government, especially those affecting the judiciary, serve the military’s agenda to suppress Khan’s political resurgence.
Khan’s attempts to instigate public protests in Islamabad in response to these amendments have been stifled by a continuous crackdown on PTI, leaving many of its leaders either jailed or exiled. While government representatives refute claims of undue confinement, asserting Khan is housed with relative comfort, Khan alleges oppressive conditions designed to break his spirit, including prolonged isolation and restricted basic freedoms.
Civilian trials in military courts
Speculation persists regarding the government’s intent to potentially prosecute Khan in military courts for alleged crimes including corruption and terrorism. Khan denounces this as a blatant misuse of power, challenging the constitutionality of subjecting civilians to military tribunals. The international community, concerned about Khan’s treatment and the transparency of his trials, has amplified scrutiny on Pakistan’s military intervention in democratic processes.