Rawalpindi:
Former Prime Minister Imran Khan has directed the Chief Minister of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa to prepare for protest following his sentencing in the Toshakhana II case. His remarks, shared via his official account on X, came after he was handed a 17‑year prison term alongside his wife Bushra Bibi.
Reaction to Verdict
Khan alleged that “only pre‑written judgments are read out here,” adding that the Toshakhana II decision was no surprise given what he described as a series of “baseless verdicts and sentences” over the past three years. He claimed that both he and his wife were being subjected to solitary confinement and mental distress, with restrictions on books, television, and family meetings.
Conditions in Jail
According to Khan, while other prisoners are allowed access to television, he and Bushra Bibi have been denied even that. He said books sent by his family were blocked by jail authorities. Khan also expressed sorrow over alleged mistreatment of his sisters and other women outside Adiala Jail, including Bushra Bibi, Dr. Yasmin Rashid, and Maherang Baloch, calling such actions contrary to Islamic traditions and ethics.
Statements on Institutions
Khan emphasized that his criticism is directed at individuals, not institutions, noting that “the army is mine and the nation belongs to Pakistan.” He compared his remarks to past critiques of dictators.
Legal Strategy
Khan reaffirmed his trust in Barrister Salman Safdar and his team, instructing them to challenge what he called “bogus decisions” in the Islamabad High Court. He also urged lawyers to take a frontline role in the struggle for rule of law and constitutional restoration.
Call for Street Movement
In a message to Sohail Afridi, Khan called for preparations for a street movement, urging the nation to rise for its rights. “Struggle is worship, and I am ready for martyrdom in the fight for Pakistan’s true freedom,” he declared.