Possible Ban on Imran Khan’s Party After Violent Attacks on Military Sites in Pakistan

Islamabad: Pakistan’s Defense Minister, Khawaja Asif, has revealed that the government is contemplating a ban on Imran Khan’s Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party following attacks on military installations by his supporters. The violence ensued after the arrest of Imran Khan by paramilitary Rangers, with PTI workers vandalizing several military and civilian sites.

Khawaja Asif expressed disappointment over Imran Khan’s reluctance to condemn the attacks carried out by his supporters. He stated that a decision to ban PTI has not been made yet, but a review is underway. If the ban is pursued, it would require approval from the Parliament.

The Defense Minister accused Imran Khan of considering the army as his adversary and criticized him for standing against it. Asif claimed that the attacks on military installations were coordinated and planned by Imran Khan, citing evidence and statements from former PTI leaders who left the party.

In response to the potential ban, PTI leader Barrister Ali Zafar announced that the party would challenge it in court. He argued that political parties cannot be banned and referred to a past Supreme Court ruling on the matter involving the Jamaat-i-Islami party.

Khawaja Asif emphasized the government’s commitment to taking necessary steps to prevent future targeting of the armed forces. He also mentioned that May 25 would be observed to pay tribute to the soldiers who lost their lives.

Imran Khan was removed from power in April of the previous year following a no-confidence vote. He alleged that the vote was part of a conspiracy led by the United States to undermine his independent foreign policy decisions involving Russia, China, and Afghanistan.