ISLAMABAD, Nov 28 (Alliance News): Minister for Planning, Development, and Special Initiatives, Professor Ahsan Iqbal, has stated that former Prime Minister and PTI founder, Imran Khan, is not a political prisoner but is facing significant allegations, including corruption and inciting violence.
He emphasized that Khan’s actions involved encouraging violent attacks on sensitive sites, creating disorder in the country.
Addressing foreign media alongside Minister for Information, Broadcasting, National Heritage, and Culture, Attaullah Tarar, Iqbal underlined that Khan’s situation should be seen in the context of legal due process. “No Western politician or public figure would go unpunished for such serious offenses,” he remarked, drawing comparisons to recent UK incidents where quick legal action was taken against rioters.
Iqbal recounted PTI’s history of violent conduct, referencing the 2014 sit-in that led to an assault on the Red Zone and the occupation of the Parliament House.
He noted that PTI had continued similar aggressive behavior over the years, including attempts to stage confrontational rallies, often with support from the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government.
He highlighted the peak of PTI’s extremist actions on May 9, when its supporters attacked critical military sites, including the General Headquarters, military bases, and monuments dedicated to national martyrs.
Iqbal pointed out that such acts would not be tolerated in any democratic country, including the US, UK, or other European nations.
The minister also revealed that PTI’s rally on November 24 was supported with significant resources from the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government, including funds, machinery, and personnel.
He reiterated that Khan’s demand for release lacked merit, as he faced accusations of corruption, theft, and inciting violence.
Additionally, Iqbal addressed PTI’s reluctance to fulfill legal obligations, particularly in connection with the party’s foreign funding case, involving £190 million that was converted to “white” money, meant for the national exchequer.
