Imprisoned Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan expressed deep regret over trusting former army chief General (retd) Qamar Javed Bajwa while he was in power, as reported by Dawn. The former Prime Minister of Pakistan accused Bajwa of orchestrating his imprisonment and criticized both the political and military leadership of the country.
"Exclusive: Imran Khan Talks to Me From Prison"
Another Zeteo exclusive: my interview with the former Pakistani prime minister, who tells me about his dire prison conditions, his view of the U.S. & the Pakistani military, & why the world should care:https://t.co/8soUhWrkbh
— Mehdi Hasan (@mehdirhasan) May 29, 2024
“My only regret is trusting General Bajwa,” Imran stated, accusing Bajwa of creating false narratives to secure a second extension as the military head. Imran detailed Bajwa’s alleged meticulous planning, portraying him as deceitful and responsible for national and international chaos to secure his position.
Read more: Imran Khan and PTI Leaders Acquitted in Long March Vandalism Cases
“I am certain that this ordeal was orchestrated by General Bajwa. I hold no one else responsible. He meticulously planned and executed this scheme, presenting himself as a deceitful figure, creating lies and false narratives to cause national and international chaos—all to secure his extension,” Imran emphasized, according to Dawn.
Imran’s view of Bajwa evolved over time. Although he initially approved an extension for Bajwa in 2019, by 2022, he admitted to Bol News that it was a mistake, criticizing Bajwa’s understanding of democracy and Pakistan’s political landscape.
When asked about US involvement in his removal from office, Imran attributed the blame solely to Bajwa. “General Bajwa single-handedly spread stories about me to countries like the US, painting me as anti-American or uninterested in good relations with them,” he alleged.
Read more: IHC Bench for Imran Khan Disqualification Case Involving Alleged Daughter
Imran’s criticism extended to Bajwa’s leadership style, describing him as unpredictable and driven by personal greed. “His insatiable thirst for power rendered him unpredictable,” Imran remarked, likening Bajwa’s actions to those of a “bull in a china shop,” as reported by Dawn.
Throughout the interview, Imran emphasized his commitment to the rule of law in Pakistan and maintained that his imprisonment was unjust. He claimed to have consistently fought for democracy and justice, suggesting that his incarceration was the result of political vendettas orchestrated by Bajwa.
Imran’s views on the legitimacy of the current government reflected his ongoing political stance. He adamantly refused to recognize the government, citing alleged election rigging and violence.
Imran’s message to the world emphasized his steadfast commitment to democracy and the people of Pakistan. “This is not just about Imran Khan. This is an attack on democracy and the right to self-determination of 250 million people,” he declared, highlighting the alleged suppression of PTI members and the trust deficit between the ruling elite and the people.