A deepening sense of insecurity within Pakistan’s military is driving plans for a significant escalation against former Prime Minister Imran Khan. Despite numerous attempts to engage him, Khan has maintained a firm stance, frustrating the army leadership. The military’s apprehension is compounded by the widespread public support Khan continues to command across Pakistan.
Multiple meetings between army representatives and Khan have reportedly concluded without resolution. Officials suggest that if Khan persists in his defiance, the army may push for his party, the PTI, to be banned. Furthermore, there’s speculation that the government might be urged to pursue treason charges against the former premier.
The army is actively attempting to frame Imran Khan as a national security threat. This narrative suggests that his intimate knowledge of Pakistan’s ‘secret assets,’ gained during his premiership, could be exploited. To bolster this claim, elements within the military are allegedly questioning his mental stability, thereby casting doubt on his ability to safeguard sensitive national information.
Offers extended to Khan for safe passage and political asylum abroad have been unequivocally rejected, a situation that has reportedly intensified the army’s frustration. This deadlock is pushing the establishment towards more extreme measures.
Adding to the military’s grievances, Khan is being held responsible for the current surge in terrorist attacks and the complex relationship with the Afghan Taliban. The army contends that policies under his leadership facilitated the return and integration of TTP militants, directly contributing to a nearly five-fold increase in terror incidents and ongoing security challenges along the Afghan border.
International observers note that Imran Khan has become a particularly challenging figure for Pakistan’s establishment. With dialogue failing and his defiance unwavering, the army is reportedly considering drastic actions. However, experts warn that such moves, including treason trials or party bans, could provoke widespread public backlash.
Khan’s enduring popularity, amplified by his status as a World Cup-winning cricketer, makes him a potent public figure. Any severe action against him is likely to trigger significant street protests, posing a substantial challenge for the authorities to manage. The establishment, despite potential internal divisions, appears committed to neutralizing Khan. They are reportedly citing international pressure, including perceived US disapproval linked to Khan’s allegations of foreign interference in his removal, and friction with China over CPEC remarks, as justifications for their actions. Preparations are reportedly underway to build a case against Khan, focusing on accusations of aiding the TTP, mishandling foreign policy, and posing a security risk due to alleged mental instability.