Pakistan is planning to take drastic legal action against former Prime Minister Imran Khan’s political party, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), as announced by Information Minister Attaullah Tarar on Monday.
Tarar stated that the government intends to ban PTI, citing proven allegations of illegal foreign funding and rioting by its supporters targeting military installations last year, according to Reuters.
“The federal government will pursue a case to ban Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf,” Tarar affirmed, noting that the decision will be brought before the cabinet for approval.
Additionally, the government plans to file treason charges against Imran Khan and former President Arif Alvi under Pakistan’s constitution, with the case to be presented before the Supreme Court, Tarar disclosed.
In response, Imran Khan’s aide, Zulfikar Bukhari, criticized the move as a form of “soft martial law,” expressing the belief that it reflects panic rather than legal certainty.
The political turbulence coincides with Pakistan’s urgent need to implement unpopular reforms, such as taxing agricultural income, to secure a $7 billion IMF loan.
Economic analyst Khurram Husain pointed out that a government embroiled in legitimacy issues and focused on restraining Imran Khan’s influence might struggle to make critical decisions required to meet IMF program conditions.
Recently, the Supreme Court ruled in favor of PTI, granting the party over 20 additional reserved seats in parliament, adding pressure on Pakistan’s fragile coalition government.
PTI candidates participated in the February 8 election as independents following their party’s disqualification from contesting.
The implications of the planned PTI ban on the court’s reserved seat decision remain uncertain, although Minister Tarar indicated the government’s intention to seek a legal review.
Among the reasons cited for banning PTI were allegations of lobbying in Washington for a U.S. House resolution against Pakistan’s elections and advocating for an IMF audit before providing financial assistance.
Independent rights group, the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan, expressed shock over the government’s decision on social media and called for its withdrawal.
Imran Khan, detained since August, acquitted on marriage charges, remains in custody. Removed from power in 2022 amid tensions with the military.
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