A day after Bushra Bibi accused Saudi Arabia of being involved in the removal of her husband, former prime minister Imran Khan, from office, Khan defended his wife, claiming her remarks were “deliberately taken out of context” to embroil Saudi Arabia in unnecessary controversy.
“November 24th is the day to break free from slavery. The rule of law, constitution, and human rights are suspended in Pakistan, forcing the nation to come out to protest and make sacrifices. The nation must decide whether to wear the yoke of slavery like Bahadur Shah Zafar or to…
— Imran Khan (@ImranKhanPTI) November 22, 2024
In a statement issued from Adiala Jail, where he has been held since August last year, Khan clarified that his wife had not mentioned Saudi Arabia. The controversy arose from a rare video message by Bushra Bibi ahead of PTI’s upcoming “do-or-die” protest, in which she suggested Saudi officials had influenced the ouster of her husband. She alleged that during a visit to Madina, where Khan walked barefoot, former army chief Gen (retd) Qamar Javed Bajwa received calls implying disapproval from Saudi officials.
Read more: Bushra Bibi addresses public for the first time, makes surprising statements
The former first lady claimed that Bajwa was asked, “Who is this person you have brought with you? […] We don’t want such personalities.” She alleged this marked the beginning of a smear campaign labeling Khan as a “Jewish agent.”
The accusations sparked sharp criticism from government leaders, who deemed them damaging to Pakistan’s close ties with Saudi Arabia. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif called it a “suicide attack” on the nations’ friendship, vowing to counter any effort to harm bilateral relations.
Imran Khan dismissed the backlash, asserting his “excellent relations” with Saudi Arabia. He emphasized that Saudi Arabia had always supported Pakistan, citing the swift response from Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman following the assassination attempt on him in November 2022. Khan also noted Saudi Arabia’s pivotal role in facilitating a successful OIC Foreign Ministers’ Conference in Islamabad shortly before his government was toppled.
Khan reiterated his belief that his government was removed through conspiracies orchestrated by Gen Bajwa, and he had sought investigations into these claims, which were blocked. He maintained that his wife has no political involvement and was merely conveying his message ahead of the November 24 protest.
Labeling the date as a turning point, Khan urged the nation to rise against injustice, invoking historical symbols of freedom like Tipu Sultan.
Government Reaction
Bushra Bibi’s remarks drew strong condemnation from government officials. PM Shehbaz Sharif declared that Pakistan would not tolerate any effort to undermine its ties with Saudi Arabia, emphasizing the longstanding, brotherly relationship between the two nations.
Finance Minister Ishaq Dar expressed disappointment, calling the statement a “desperate” and regrettable move for political gain. He urged restraint in using foreign policy for domestic agendas.
Defence Minister Khawaja Asif criticized Bushra Bibi’s involvement, alleging her remarks reflected the “ugliest face” of politics and suggesting internal family disputes were at play. Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz echoed these sentiments, accusing Bushra Bibi of attacking an ally country without understanding its longstanding support for Pakistan.
The controversy follows earlier claims by Khan that his government was ousted through a conspiracy involving the U.S., citing a purported diplomatic cipher from 2022.