Former Prime Minister Imran Khan emphasized the urgent need for reforms in Pakistan, describing the country as grappling with severe crises requiring significant intervention. He asserted that only a government with a strong mandate from the public could effectively implement these reforms. Imran Khan dismissed any possibility of negotiating with the PML-N, foreseeing the imminent collapse of the current government.
Speaking during a court hearing from Rawalpindi’s Adiala Jail regarding the £190 million case, Mr. Khan expressed concern over Pakistan’s reliance on loans to manage previous debts and criticized the trend of Pakistani investments abroad, as reported by BBC Urdu.
Mr. Khan also criticized the heavy taxation across various sectors, arguing that it stifles investment opportunities. He specifically targeted the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC), cautioning about the repercussions of the recent budget, particularly with the bills expected in June and July. He also criticized the government’s imposition of substantial taxes on professionals and the general public in the upcoming year’s budget.
Regarding Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal’s comments suggesting imprisonment, Imran Khan accused him of contempt of court, arguing that such statements undermine the rule of law.
When asked about potential negotiations with the government, Mr. Khan clarified that the PTI had not agreed to talks but had suggested Mehmood Khan Achakzai as a mediator, indicating openness to proposals from him.
In another development, Mr. Khan petitioned the Supreme Court for an expedited hearing on his plea to establish a commission to investigate the alleged irregularities in the February 8 general elections. The petition, submitted by senior counsel Hamid Khan, alleges fraudulent election results and seeks an inquiry conducted by impartial Supreme Court judges.
The application urged urgent consideration due to the public importance of enforcing fundamental rights, proposing a hearing date of June 25 for the case. It highlighted constitutional duties of the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) under Articles 218 and 219, emphasizing the need for transparent and fair elections.
The original petition also called for suspending governmental actions until the commission’s findings are disclosed, naming the federal government, ECP, PML-N, PPP, and MQM-P as respondents. It argued that political parties with elected members should receive reserved seats as per constitutional provisions.
Imran Khan’s petition stressed that the judiciary cannot overlook alleged acts of election rigging and violation of constitutional rights, presenting evidence including video clips and media reports.
Overall, Imran Khan’s statements and legal actions underscore his stance on governance and electoral transparency amidst ongoing political challenges in Pakistan.
