"If Nawaz Sharif is brought back under a new NRO, I'll bring people out on streets" : Imran Khan

[MenInG]

"If Nawaz Sharif is brought back under a new NRO, I'll bring people out on streets" : Imran Khan

Former prime minister and Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Chairman Imran Khan has said that the entire institutions were not corrupt but some elements in them indulge in ‘bad practices’.

“If one person makes a mistake, this does not mean that the whole institution is at fault,” he said while addressing the party workers and supporters live on social media on Wednesday night.

Replying to a question regarding the role of state institutions in the upcoming elections, the deposed premier said “there are also humans [in institutions]... if one or two individuals do something wrong, the entire institution is not responsible for their act," he added.

Talking about the chief election commissioner, he said that all his judgements were “anti-PTI”.

“The day [foreign funding] cases of all three parties are heard simultaneously, it will be clear that only PTI has a proper system of funding," he added.


Imran Khan said that if former prime minister Nawaz Sharif comes back and gets another ‘NRO’, he will not accept it and bring people out on streets.

"It will discredit judicial system as no one would believe in it... everyone will say the wealthy can get away with anything in Pakistan," he added.

He said that in third world countries, they only catch small thieves and not the big ones but in the first world, there is no such thing. "You cannot imagine prime ministers making factories there... rule of law is the biggest issue in Pakistan," he added.

Imran Khan said that there are big mafias in Pakistan and his government was bringing them under the rule of law.

To a question about dissenting PTI members, Imran Khan said that they thought when PTI would come into power, the government will make their businesses grow [in a wrongful way] but we did not.

"That's why we faced issues because we stopped them. If sugar prices suddenly increased by Rs26 per kilo then we tried to stop it ... these people have exposed themselves," he added.

'Army more important than Imran Khan'

Imran Khan said that if the country’s youth accepts the "foreign conspiracy" then in future the whole generation would be seeking visa of rich countries. "If corrupt people come into power like this then there is no future," he added.

To a question about memes on social media, the former prime minister said that he doesn't watch television anymore nor does he get time to read newspaper but he sees things on social media these days.

Imran Khan urged his followers not to say anything bad about the armed forces of Pakistan. "If there was no army, there will be no Pakistan... Pakistan needed army more than Imran Khan," he added.

He said that the enemies of Pakistan are attacking the army and during their tenures Nawaz Sharif and Asif Ali Zardari tried to undermine the army. "When Nawaz was abroad, he attacked the COAS and the army and everyone knows this," he added.

He further said that if there was no army, there would be three pieces of Pakistan by now.

‘PTI to emerge victorious in next polls’

In the next elections, he said he himself will lead the party’s campaign in interior Sindh. "Independence is more needed in the province than the rest of Pakistan."

"As long as the rule of law is not applied to the powerful, Pakistan will never prosper."

He said that Maryam Nawaz, Hamza Shehbaz and Bilawal Bhutto have no credentials as they cannot connect with people. These are privileged people and their parties are shrinking... PTI is the only federal party of Pakistan... they cannot compete with us [in the upcoming election], he added.

"Political dynasties are the negation of democracy. Their (PDM) children; be it Maryam, Hamza or Bilawal have never worked a day in their lives. They are accustomed to living like royalty."

Security threat to Lahore rally

To a question about security threats to PTI's Lahore rally tomorrow, Imran Khan said that he will definitely come to the rally. "It is a special place because Pakistan resolution was tabled there ... Indian Muslims had decided that they wanted separate land ... we're also launching our campaign there ... I believe we will have record number of people there."

Imran Khan said under his rule, Pakistan had record numbers of dollar inflow, adding that in future his government will try never to go to IMF.

He said that national curriculum was an important initiative and so was Rehmatul lil Allameen Authority. "Whatever they do they will not be able to remain in power for long and we will expand our initiatives once we're back in power."

'Unprecedented protests'

He said that he did not expect such huge crowds would come out in his support after his government was ousted earlier this month. "I had expected just five per cent of what actually came out. When I saw people I was so happy because I saw a nation emerging ... for the first time I saw where we should have been 75 years ago," he added.

About protests held abroad in favour of PTI, he said that the protest demonstrationswere unprecedented. "They (the protests) prove that people do not accept the conspiracy," he added.

Future strategy

To a question about his possible disqualification in the foreign funding case, he said that there was nothing in foreign funding case and the ECP cannot disqualify anyone.

He said that in the next elections, he will personally distribute party tickets. "I will personally scrutinise each candidate... we will never make the same mistakes again."

He said that many electable remained with PTI but many betrayed the party.

Presidential system

To a question about presidential form of government, Imran Khan said that the current parliamentary system in Pakistan is very difficult to manage. "If moral evolutions are high then parliamentary system works ... except for some Anglo-Saxon countries this system doesn't exist anywhere because people do not have that high moral standing," he added.

He said that the current parliamentary system will only work if a party comes with a clear majority but if it is dependent on others it will get blackmailed and will find it very difficult to bring ‘change’.

Earlier, PTI’s official social media team was instructed to make preparations for the party chairman’s address.

The party leaders also held an important meeting of the political committee in which overall political situation was discussed. The participants were briefed on the preparations for the upcoming public rally to be held on April 21 at Minar-e-Pakistan in Lahore.

Special instructions were given to officials to reach the venue on time with their caravans.

On the occasion, ex-PM Imran said the country had no choice but to give the people a chance for their future through transparent elections.

“People protect the sovereignty and democracy of a country,” he said. “If change of government is accepted through conspiracy, no future head of government will dare to face external pressure.”

Imran maintained that the whole nation is united and mobilised for its freedom and sovereignty.

Sources said the PTI chief will announce a future strategy on the historic site of Minar-e-Pakistan.

https://tribune.com.pk/story/235343...esnt-mean-whole-institution-is-at-fault-imran

 

[JaDed]

Sane comments this time around.

 

[Major]

Umm, so why did you give an nro and let him leave than instead of jailing?

Imran is angry because Zardari used the sharifs against him. He threw away his NA opposition benches becuase he couldnt find it in himself to shake shebaz's hand....

His blood boils whenever he sees pm shebaz shareef, because he thinks it was his....

 

[Cover Drive Six]

Former PM Imran Khan's Twitter Space sets new record with over 130K people.

 

[Cover Drive Six]

Imran Khan in his Twitter Space says Pakistani Politicians are scared of India since Indian lobby is strong in the west. Khan says, Nawaz Sharif and Zardari failed to raise Kashmir issue internationally because they feared India and felt their foreign accounts might be frozen.

 

[TigerOfPakistan]

Former PM Imran Khan's Twitter Space sets new record with over 130K people.

160k on Spaces. Previous high record is 44k by some mumbo jumbo.

In total Over 1 million tuned in if you count the views on fb, yt and twitter

 

[Cover Drive Six]

More than 473K people turned in during one hour long Twitter Space of Pakistan former PM Imran Khan, with highest concurrent listeners at 164K.

 

[TigerOfPakistan]

More than 473K people turned in during one hour long Twitter Space of Pakistan former PM Imran Khan, with highest concurrent listeners at 164K.

Insane

 

[Cover Drive Six]

160k on Spaces. Previous high record is 44k by some mumbo jumbo.

In total Over 1 million tuned in if you count the views on fb, yt and twitter

Top Spaces in Twitter History:

1- Former PM Imran Khan - over 160K
2- K-POP Lyrical Space - over 44K
3- Salvador Bill Analysis- over 27K

Data Source: Twitter Spaces

 

[Cover Drive Six]

"Pakistan needs its army more than it needs Imran Khan. I advise my followers to never speak against army." - former PM Imran Khan

 

[Hermoine Green]

"Pakistan needs its army more than it needs Imran Khan" top one.

And one girl asked" I knew everyone would be asking political questions, i just want to ask How are you doing" that was cute lol

 

[Hermoine Green]

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="ur" dir="rtl">چھپ چھپ کھڑے ہو ضرور کوئی بات ہے<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PakistanNeedsElection?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PakistanNeedsElection</a> <br> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/%D8%A7%D9%85%D9%BE%D9%88%D8%B1%D9%B9%DA%88_%D8%AD%DA%A9%D9%88%D9%85%D8%AA_%D9%86%D8%A7%D9%85%D9%86%D8%B8%D9%88%D8%B1?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#امپورٹڈ_حکومت_نامنظور</a> <a href="https://t.co/w2yZU2gTxg">pic.twitter.com/w2yZU2gTxg</a></p>— Qasim Khan Suri (@QasimKhanSuri) <a href="https://twitter.com/QasimKhanSuri/status/1516853711531700225?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 20, 2022</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

 

[KingKhanWC]

Nawaz was crying like a little 8 year old girl. Begging to go to London for medical treatment.

All of a sudden a mirale has taken place, he is healthy.

I agree with IK. The people should all come out, take him into custody as citizens arrest, as soon as this thief gets off the plane.

 

[DeadlyVenom]

Nawaz was crying like a little 8 year old girl. Begging to go to London for medical treatment.

All of a sudden a mirale has taken place, he is healthy.

I agree with IK. The people should all come out, take him into custody as citizens arrest, as soon as this thief gets off the plane.

I find it highly unlikely he will come back. Imran will find a way to make sure he wont set foot in Pakistan.

Truth be told I dont really think even SS really wants him back either.

His branch of the shareef line now holds all the cards. Why would he take the lime light from himself?

 

[KingKhanWC]

I find it highly unlikely he will come back. Imran will find a way to make sure he wont set foot in Pakistan.

Truth be told I dont really think even SS really wants him back either.

His branch of the shareef line now holds all the cards. Why would he take the lime light from himself?

Nawaz is the real imported PM, his little brother is told what to do imo. There is a video of a phone call to his little bro after the speaker went against the vote. Its clear, he was being given instructions or being told off.

At least we wont have his pathetic face in the UK any longer, if he does go.

 

[Major]

I find it highly unlikely he will come back. Imran will find a way to make sure he wont set foot in Pakistan.

Truth be told I dont really think even SS really wants him back either.

His branch of the shareef line now holds all the cards. Why would he take the lime light from himself?

Shebaz is loyal to his brother. This guy was given opportunity to do a mutiny against Nawaz many times by previous govt. He was offered PMship many times and he refused.

He is never gonna go against his brother, he is loyal to him.

 

[daytrader]

Shebaz is loyal to his brother. This guy was given opportunity to do a mutiny against Nawaz many times by previous govt. He was offered PMship many times and he refused.

He is never gonna go against his brother, he is loyal to him.

Yes loyal to a Pakistani sitting in London. I wonder if you consider Nawaz to be an overseas Pakistani??

 

[KingKhanWC]

Yes loyal to a Pakistani sitting in London. I wonder if you consider Nawaz to be an overseas Pakistani?? &#55358;&#56596;

Wonder why he wants to celebrate Eid in Uk and then return?

Does this fool even fast?

 

[Bewal Express]

Shebaz is loyal to his brother. This guy was given opportunity to do a mutiny against Nawaz many times by previous govt. He was offered PMship many times and he refused.

He is never gonna go against his brother, he is loyal to him.

So loyal to a criminal is more important than loyalty to the PK constitution. As I said Major Sahib you are too simple to see the logic of your argument.

 

[DeadlyVenom]

Shebaz is loyal to his brother. This guy was given opportunity to do a mutiny against Nawaz many times by previous govt. He was offered PMship many times and he refused.

He is never gonna go against his brother, he is loyal to him.

I am sensing some rifts. Even maryam doesn't look to happy.

It will suit Shebaz to have Nawaz sitting on the sidelines with Shebaz pretending to bring him back.

 

[Major]

So loyal to a criminal is more important than loyalty to the PK constitution. As I said Major Sahib you are too simple to see the logic of your argument.

reread what i wrote. Loyal interms of not ditching his brother.

Alsom as for the constitution, if you really cared about it you would had said by now how Asad Qaiser, Qasim Suri and Imran Khan acted against the constitution.

Inshallah these traitors will pay for what they did

 

[Bewal Express]

reread what i wrote. Loyal interms of not ditching his brother.

Alsom as for the constitution, if you really cared about it you would had said by now how Asad Qaiser, Qasim Suri and Imran Khan acted against the constitution.

Inshallah these traitors will pay for what they did

No they didn't. If they did then start a case and let the SC decide. The best you could argue is that they stretched it to its limits but stop talking nonsense. Its your govt, file a reference and then we will see if the SC opens at midnight

 

[Bewal Express]

reread what i wrote. Loyal interms of not ditching his brother.

Alsom as for the constitution, if you really cared about it you would had said by now how Asad Qaiser, Qasim Suri and Imran Khan acted against the constitution.

Inshallah these traitors will pay for what they did

As PM he is loyalty to PK, not his crooked bhagora brother and Biden. But with 24/35 cabinet members on bail, the clown is loyal to $$$$ and not PK.

 

[MenInG]

IT took only a couple of minutes for the former prime minister and Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI) chairman Imran Khan to break the internet, and quite likely a global record on Twitter, on Wednesday night.

Nearly half a million users (over 446,000) from around the world interacted with Mr Khan via Spaces, an audio live feature on Twitter. The average number of users listening at a time was 165,000. The address was also live-streamed on other platforms with thousands watching such as Facebook and Instagram.

For PTI supporters attending from within Pakistan and without, however, the highlight was being able to convey their support and concern with their leader. “How are you doing?” asked a worried supporter, officially starting the session that lasted over an hour.

To a question about a threat to his life at the Lahore rally today, Mr Khan said he would attend no matter what.

“Minar-i-Pakistan is a special place because the Pakistan resolution was presented there. Indian Muslims decided that they wanted [a] separate [home]land. We will also launch our freedom movement there. I believe a record number of people will come,” he said.

The PTI leader said that he did not expect such huge crowds would come out in his support after his government was ousted earlier this month. “I had expected just five per cent of what actually came out. When I saw people I was so happy because I saw a nation emerging ... for the first time I saw where we should have been 75 years ago,” he added.

Terming the protests by overseas Pakistanis “unprecedented”, the former PM said that conspiracies would not work anymore as people had become politically aware.

The role of army

Amid a crackdown by FIA on social media activists running anti-state campaigns and PML-N’s allegations of involving bots to trend these campaigns, the PTI leader urged his supporters to not say anything against the armed forces of Pakistan. “Never ever speak against the army. If we didn’t have the army, we wouldn’t have survived. The army is more necessary than Imran Khan,” he said.

He added that enemies of Pakistan were attacking the army and both Nawaz Sharif and Asif Zardari undermined the army when in power. “What were Dawn leaks and Memogate?” he asked.

There were other issues of importance that needed urgent attention by the PTI leader. For, instance, what happens to the memes that the social media supporters said they were tired of making. “I have stopped reading papers. Social media has taken over, I only watch social media,” replied Khan.

Lessons learned

Talking about the chief election commissioner, Mr Khan said ECP’s judgements were “anti-PTI”. “The day [foreign funding] cases of all three parties are heard simultaneously, it will be clear that only PTI has a proper system of funding,” he added.

In terms of future strategy and choosing electables over PTI core workers, the chairman said they gave out tickets to wrong people and this time he would prefer ideological workers over electables next time. “Last time, I didn’t give tickets myself. This time I will not approve a single ticket without scrutiny,” said Khan.

Media freedom

Answering a question about 95pc of media being against Imran Khan’s government and politics, the PTI leader maintained that the country’s media was the freest during his tenure. “So-called liberals used to attack us about media freedom. We faced the most criticism and propaganda. They spread fake news against us. Today, all of the media is blacking us out...This is because these mafias co-opt media owners,” he said.

“I found out three months ago that journalists and anchors were getting foreign offers to run campaigns against us. But this will not work in the age of social media, information will get out and it cannot be stopped,” he said.

Mr Khan said that after the Lahore rally, he would start speaking to international media as well.

Before concluding the session, Mr Khan said that he had never witnessed this widespread sense of nationalism in people as he had seen after his government was removed. “This will make Pakistan a nation... I urge everyone to come to Minar-i-Pakistan tomorrow. We will create history at a historical place.”

Published in Dawn, April 21st, 2022

 

[Itachi]

Why did he allow to go out of the country in the first place?

 

[gazza619]

Shebaz is loyal to his brother. This guy was given opportunity to do a mutiny against Nawaz many times by previous govt. He was offered PMship many times and he refused.

He is never gonna go against his brother, he is loyal to him.

Yeah this has brought tears to my eyes.

 

[Varun]

I find it highly unlikely he will come back. Imran will find a way to make sure he wont set foot in Pakistan.

Before he escaped to the UK I'm sure you would have stated that Imran would make sure he wouldn't leave. And Imran was PM then, and just a regular politician now.

 

[daytrader]

Why did he allow to go out of the country in the first place?

Mafia presented IK with fake facts about his health condition. It was a sympathetic decision, also Shehbaz was his guarantor

 

[cricketjoshila]

"Pakistan needs its army more than it needs Imran Khan. I advise my followers to never speak against army." - former PM Imran Khan

Of course, he needs them to come to power.

Army is very clever, support one man to be the PM, when that man starts using his power to undermine the army, replace him with the opposition. And continue this cycle.

Can anyone tell me if in any election in pakistan, any party got simple majority? I know mujib got in 1970.

 

[cricketjoshila]

Lets assume that Nawaz Sharif is brought back via a new NRO, can Imran not challenge it in the court? Isn't that the legal constitutional way?

 

[Bhaag Viru Bhaag]

160k on Spaces. Previous high record is 44k by some mumbo jumbo.

In total Over 1 million tuned in if you count the views on fb, yt and twitter

How many tuned in from India?

 

[Rana]

Of course, he needs them to come to power.

Army is very clever, support one man to be the PM, when that man starts using his power to undermine the army, replace him with the opposition. And continue this cycle.

Can anyone tell me if in any election in pakistan, any party got simple majority? I know mujib got in 1970.

Why are Indians so concerned about Pakistan being run by the Army? Is it any of their business?

 

[DeadlyVenom]

Before he escaped to the UK I'm sure you would have stated that Imran would make sure he wouldn't leave. And Imran was PM then, and just a regular politician now.

When circumstances change then the actions that are required also change.

At the time he was heavily pressured to release him. It also seemed like the Nooras were finished.

This time a triumphant Nawaz returning will be a huge success for the sitting government.

PTI will try their best to stop him, it will be a good way of galvanising their support.

 

[Varun]

Why are Indians so concerned about Pakistan being run by the Army? Is it any of their business?

One reason is that if Pakistan was run by a conventional civilian government (without a military overlord like it is now), it probably offers a greater chance of peace between the two nations.

 

[Rana]

One reason is that if Pakistan was run by a conventional civilian government (without a military overlord like it is now), it probably offers a greater chance of peace between the two nations.

So the Indians constantly taunting Pakistan for being run by the Army are secretly hoping for peace ties to resume?

 

[Itachi]

Why are Indians so concerned about Pakistan being run by the Army? Is it any of their business?

Yes. Considering Pakistan has attacked earlier, it's one of the utmost important subject.

 

[Varun]

So the Indians constantly taunting Pakistan for being run by the Army are secretly hoping for peace ties to resume?

I can speak for myself. I definitely want peace between India and Pakistan. I kind of knew the factions in both countries who don't want this (currently Modi in India, and perennially the military in Pakistan) - so I support recent Pakistani views of keeping their armed forces only at the borders and far away from the world of politics.

 

[Rana]

Yes. Considering Pakistan has attacked earlier, it's one of the utmost important subject.

I think it’s more to do with Indians wanting Pakistan to destabilise with the influence of the Army non existent

 

[Bewal Express]

One reason is that if Pakistan was run by a conventional civilian government (without a military overlord like it is now), it probably offers a greater chance of peace between the two nations.

There will never be real peace until Kashmiris are given their right to self determination.

 

[Varun]

I think it’s more to do with Indians wanting Pakistan to destabilise with the influence of the Army non existent

Your army alone is enough to cause instability: losing pieces of the country, droning your own towns and villages for money, removing a popular leader in Imran Khan, etc.

 

[Kaddy]

Of course, he needs them to come to power.

Army is very clever, support one man to be the PM, when that man starts using his power to undermine the army, replace him with the opposition. And continue this cycle.

Can anyone tell me if in any election in pakistan, any party got simple majority? I know mujib got in 1970.

Nawaz Sharif in 1997 got simple majority as well.

 

[Itachi]

I think it’s more to do with Indians wanting Pakistan to destabilise with the influence of the Army non existent

Pakistan is already destabilise on its own thanks to tantrums thrown by PTI. You don't need another party for it.

 

[gani999]

Imran Khan in his Twitter Space says Pakistani Politicians are scared of India since Indian lobby is strong in the west. Khan says, Nawaz Sharif and Zardari failed to raise Kashmir issue internationally because they feared India and felt their foreign accounts might be frozen.

Imran never misses an opportunity to bring up India. He loves India

And yet his supporters still claim that he doesn't care for India, and it is the Indians who are obsessed with Pakistan.

 

[Bewal Express]

Imran never misses an opportunity to bring up India. He loves India

And yet his supporters still claim that he doesn't care for India, and it is the Indians who are obsessed with Pakistan.

You guys are on our forums, you guys are the trolls on twitter on PK issues, you guys are the trolls on our Newspapers, you guys are the trolls on PK Youtubers videos. You were saying?

 

[mazkhan]

Your army alone is enough to cause instability: losing pieces of the country, droning your own towns and villages for money, removing a popular leader in Imran Khan, etc.

Well put

This whole mess is because bajwa bottled it from us threats , so he removed a patriot albeit his government policies actions left a lot to be desired but replaced him with the band of crooks .

 

[cricketjoshila]

You guys are on our forums, you guys are the trolls on twitter on PK issues, you guys are the trolls on our Newspapers, you guys are the trolls on PK Youtubers videos. You were saying?

How did you confirm the citizenship of these people?

 

[cricketjoshila]

Nawaz Sharif in 1997 got simple majority as well.

Oh, thats why Musharaf needed a full coup to remove him. I wonder if thats going to be possible now, if any of the parties get simple majority. Interesting times for pakistani democracy. May the gods help them.

 

[Bewal Express]

How did you confirm the citizenship of these people?

So they are not Ind but want to pretend to support a fascist. Interesting

 

[Hermoine Green]

Thread has been derailed

 

[Hermoine Green]

Lets assume that Nawaz Sharif is brought back via a new NRO, can Imran not challenge it in the court? Isn't that the legal constitutional way?

Bro, lemme tell you something first and then you will be able to decide for your self.

Nawaz Sharif left the country on the basis of health conditions he was ordered to come back in 4 months, his guarantr was his brother who is convicted criminal, he gave the guarantee at a simple plain white paper at SUNDAY.

Nawaz Sharif ran away from the country, and its been years he aint coming back. Courts arent ordering his arrest or comeback as well.

Maryam Nawaz Sharif released on bail since years, and the purpose of bail was that she want to take care of her father (From Pakistan). She is roaming freely in Pakistan, and courts hasnt cancelled her bail, nor the bail of Shehbaz Sharif and all other convicted criminals who are on bail since 2 years.

Now, Shehbaz has ordered that his brother should be given Diplomatic Passport, which is against our constitution, you cant give such kind of passport to convicted criminal. So, a person filed an application against this decision in IHC. Guess what? IHC rejected the application and also imposed fine of 50K PKR.

I hope now you got your answer

 

[Kianig89]

NS was about to come back but massive crowds being pulled by IK so NS again in hibernation

 

[MenInG]

Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf chairman and former prime minister Imran Khan, during his party's power show at Minar-i-Pakistan in Lahore on Thursday, indicated that his party's next stop will be in the national capital as he urged his supporters and party workers to "wait for my call."

"Lahore ... thank you! No matter how much I thank it can never be enough," Khan said in his opening remarks. I knew you would not disappoint me. I've never addressed such a big crowd."

The former prime minister continued: "Now you know what a selected government is. It is placed atop after being selected from abroad and is afraid of elections. I, in any situation, will not accept this government."

Khan, not for the first time, claimed that he was out of power due to pursuing an independent foreign policy for Pakistan, which he said was not liked by international powers. He accused global forces of colluding with local "Mir Jaffars and Mir Sadiqs among others" to end his government at a time "when the economy was shooting, the exports were record high — and all of this at a time when the coronavirus was wreaking havoc."

Khan explained the cablegate issue, repeating his allegation of US Assistant Secretary of State for Central and South Asia Donald Lu threatening Pakistan's ambassador to the US that Khan must be ousted from the power to get back in American good books.

"What crime had we committed that it warranted forgiving? Was it that we went to Russia? Or that we said we won't give military bases? Remember Lahore where they got these bad habits from. Why don't they ask the same of India?"

The PTI chairman said his government was conspired against at a time when it was on the cusp of "breaking the shackles of the IMP".

Khan defended the Toshakhana scandal against him, saying that everything he bought back was on record. He said the money gained from the sale of gifts he retained were used to mend roads leading up to his residence, which are also used by the general public.

"During their time, when presents came, they could buy them back by giving just 15pc. We came and increased the minimum price to 50pc," he said.

"The wall I had to erect ... I did not take money from the government, and these people are today doing this propaganda. I'm challenging that never in Pakistan's history a prime minister has ever spent as less on himself as I did."

Khan urged his audience to never vote his this political rivals, saying that "If you allow them to win in any constituency, you would commit treason with this country."

The PTI chairman criticised Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and his son Hamza Shehbaz for the corruption cases against them and urged the judiciary to protect officers in charge of pursuing corruption cases.

"These people — where they're sitting — tell me, which govt officer will take action against them when they know they will be subjected to revenge. I ask the courts, 'is it not your job to protect these officers?'"

"I tried in my 3.5 years of government that cases against them progressed ... but nothing happened. The NAB wasn't under me, the courts were free ... what could we have done apart from their FIA cases? And those who had power in their hands did not consider corruption to be bad. It wasn't anything big for them."

He rejected the prime minister's offer of creating a commission to probe the cablegate scandal, saying: "You think that we will accept your commission? We will only accept one commission that is in the Supreme Court. Let's have open hearings so everyone knows what big conspiracy was done against Pakistan."

Khan accused Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Sikander Sultan Raja of being biased against the PTI, claiming that his leanings were so obvious that "he should be given a PML-N office position."

"I challenge that if you dare then listen to our cases collectively so all of the nation knows who really collected money through proper channels and who does it through illicit means."

He said that if his rivals were wondering what would happen after the Lahore rally, my message to them is that "the real party has only just started."

"I'm not giving a call just to the PTI but all of Pakistan. You all have to prepare in the streets, cities and villages. You have to wait for my call when I call you all to Islamabad. I today want to make it clear that I don't want a confrontation. This is my country. I have nowhere else to go.

"We do not want to hurt our country but we won't accept this imported government in any way. This movement will gain momentum. I want one thing that elections be announced as soon as possible."

Prior to Khan's speech, Shah Mahmood Qureshi, Sheikh Rashid, Ali Muhammad Khan, Hammad Azhar, Mian Aslam, Murad Saeed, Babar Awan, Zartaj Gul, Yasmin Rashid, Fawad Chaudhry, Qasim Khan Suri, Farrukh Habib, Ejaz Chaudhry, Usman Dar, Asad Umar and Shafqat Mahmood also addressed the rally.

Qureshi, during his speech, said that another "conspiracy" was in the works against the party in the form of the foreign funding case through which he claimed the plan is to get the party banned.

The rally was also attended by PTI supporters from the music industry such as Salman Ahmed, Bilal Khan and Abrarul Haq, with the latter two also singing songs.

DAWN

 

[MenInG]

LAHORE, Pakistan, April 21 (Reuters) - Pakistan's ousted prime minister, Imran Khan, on Thursday demanded fresh elections amid political turmoil after a new government took over and warned it faces an enormous challenge to revive a battered economy.

Khan along with his over 100 lawmakers in the lower house of the parliament resigned after he lost a vote of confidence moved by a united opposition, that blamed him for mismanaging economy, governance and foreign relations. read more

"Whoever has made a mistake, there's only one way to correct it that hold elections as soon as possible," Khan told a large rally of tens of thousands of people in the eastern city of Lahore, the third such huge public gathering since he lost power to ratchet up pressure on the new government.

Khan asked his supporters to be ready for his call to march toward Islamabad if his demand to call fresh elections was delayed. "Wait for my call," he said.

Although Khan, a cricket star turned politician, has claimed that the United States was behind his downfall, an assertion that Washington denies, he had lately fallen out with the country's powerful military over differences for the appointment of country's top intelligence chief.

New Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Tuesday appointed a multi-party coalition cabinet made up of former political rivals in opposition who united to oust Khan.

The military has directly ruled the country for almost half its nearly 75-year history. It viewed Khan and his conservative

agenda favourably when he won election in 2018, but that support waned over the appointment and economic troubles.

Khan has remained defiant so far, rejecting the opposition's accusations as part of a U.S. conspiracy to topple him just because he went ahead to visit Russia against a warning from Washington.

"We wanted to bring oil on 30% discount from Russia," said Khan, who was in Moscow the day Russia attacked Ukraine, adding that his plans included to buy wheat and gas as well.

 

[MenInG]

In his maiden press conference after being ousted as prime minister, PTI Chairman Imran Khan on Saturday accused PML-N supremo Nawaz Sharif of hatching a conspiracy to dislodge his government through vote of no-confidence.

“Supreme Court should hold open hearing on threat letter... we will not accept any in-camera hearing,” he remarked.

The PTI chief also claimed that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and PPP leader Asif Ali Zardari colluded with “foreign conspirators” to remove him from power.

“No prime minister would be able to hold out against foreign conspiracies in future if no investigation was carried out [into alleged threat letter],” he said while urging the state institutions to take a stand against alleged foreign plot to protect country’s sovereignty.

Commenting on the diplomatic cipher, Imran said the language used by the US diplomat against his government was ‘unprecedented’ and ‘threatening’.

He also lashed out at the opponents for terming the telegram as a routine matter, calling them “shameless”.

“We came to know in January that a foreign conspiracy was being hatched against my government,” said the former PM.

Speaking about the party dissidents, Imran urged the apex court to hold day-day to hearing on his petition seeking disqualification of rebel lawmakers.

“If our institutions do not take a stand against this [horse-trading]… then our country’s future is in danger.”

He also accused the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) of being partial in foreign funding case, demanding its chief to step down immediately.

Imran said he has directed the party leaders and workers to begin preparations for a long march on Islamabad to achieve “real freedom”.

“A sea of people will converge on Islamabad… people have woken to reality as to how corrupt rulers were imposed on them.”

He also criticised the government’s decision of striking down names from no-fly list, saying the decision was taken to provide “safe exit” to corrupt individuals.

“Put my name on exit control list (ECL) I don’t want to go anywhere.”

Imran said yesterday’s high-powered National Security Committee (NSC) huddle “vindicated” his claim of foreign conspiracy and also “validated” minutes of the body's meeting held last month when he was the prime minister.

On Friday, the NSC meeting chaired by PM Shehbaz concluded that no evidence of “foreign conspiracy” to topple Imran Khan’s government has been found, but at the same time it endorsed the decisions taken in its previous meeting.

“NSC confirmed that the [diplomatic] cable was original and the conversation between Pakistan and US officials was real,” said Imran.

https://tribune.com.pk/story/235392...az-orchestrated-conspiracy-to-topple-pti-govt

 

[Kaddy]

Oh, thats why Musharaf needed a full coup to remove him. I wonder if thats going to be possible now, if any of the parties get simple majority. Interesting times for pakistani democracy. May the gods help them.

Now they have changed the strategy, they don't let any party take a simple majority in election. They are now so careful that they didn't let Imran take a full majority who at that time, was very close to them.

 

[MenInG]

He may not get that chance

==
ISLAMABAD: Taking notice of PTI Chairman Imran Khan’s remarks against Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Sikandar Sultan Raja and the commission, the ECP has sought a record of his speech.

In a letter written to the Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA), the ECP expressed its desire to obtain the complete record of the addresses of the following persons aired on April 26, 2022 on different news channels:

“You are, therefore, requested to provide a recording of the aforementioned addresses immediately for placing before the commission,” the letter read.

A day earlier, at the workers’ convention in Peshawar, the PTI chairman had lashed out at the CEC, calling him a “planted agent” of the PML-N. “Raja has lost all his credibility and he should immediately resign,” he had said.

He had also urged his supporters to start a campaign to collect signatures on an online petition against the chief election commissioner.

The former prime minister had said that when the result of the foreign funding case would be announced there would be just one party that would emerge with legal funding and it would be PTI.

Meanwhile, recordings of PTI lawmakers Haleem Adil Sheikh, Khurram Sher Zaman and Ejaz Chauhdry during the past few days have also been sought.

The PTI has launched a campaign against the ECP in an attempt to make the expected verdict in the foreign funding case controversial that has been pending for more than seven years.

https://www.geo.tv/latest/414121-ecp-seeks-records-of-imran-khans-anti-cec-remarks-from-pemra

 

[MenInG]

The ruling Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz is considering to quash or suspend the punishment of former prime minister Nawaz Minister under the legal provisions available both with the federal and provincial governments.

Federal Interior Minister Rana Sanaullah Khan told a private TV channel that both the federal and the Punjab government had the powers to quash or suspend the punishment of an accused and offer him a chance to plead his case afresh before a court of law for being ‘wrongly’ sentenced earlier in the case. He said that the provisions might be used to provide relief to the PML-N supremo and others.

He, however, said that Mian Nawaz Sharif, who is in self-exile in London where he had gone on the excuse of medical treatment in November 2019, would take a decision about his homecoming on the basis of his health.

The minister also hinted at amending the constitution and relevant laws, whatsoever, for empowering the presiding officer to administer oath to the prime minister or chief minister, whichever the case may be, soon after his/her election instead of leaving the task to the president or governor, in case of the chief minister.

The need for the step, he said, was felt in the Punjab crisis in which the oath-taking ceremony of Hamza Shehbaz was delayed for weeks despite Lahore High Court orders on one excuse or the other by the governor.

In future, the presiding officer conducting the election of the prime minister or the chief minister would be empowered to administer the oath of office to the winner in the contest, he said.

Responding to another query about wrapping up the National Accountability Bureau (NAB), he said that it would be a politically damaging step. However, the incumbent chairman of NAB would have to go as there was no provision of giving him an extension in service or re-appointing him.

Published in Dawn, May 2nd, 2022

 

[Bewal Express]

The ruling Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz is considering to quash or suspend the punishment of former prime minister Nawaz Minister under the legal provisions available both with the federal and provincial governments.

Federal Interior Minister Rana Sanaullah Khan told a private TV channel that both the federal and the Punjab government had the powers to quash or suspend the punishment of an accused and offer him a chance to plead his case afresh before a court of law for being ‘wrongly’ sentenced earlier in the case. He said that the provisions might be used to provide relief to the PML-N supremo and others.

He, however, said that Mian Nawaz Sharif, who is in self-exile in London where he had gone on the excuse of medical treatment in November 2019, would take a decision about his homecoming on the basis of his health.

The minister also hinted at amending the constitution and relevant laws, whatsoever, for empowering the presiding officer to administer oath to the prime minister or chief minister, whichever the case may be, soon after his/her election instead of leaving the task to the president or governor, in case of the chief minister.

The need for the step, he said, was felt in the Punjab crisis in which the oath-taking ceremony of Hamza Shehbaz was delayed for weeks despite Lahore High Court orders on one excuse or the other by the governor.

In future, the presiding officer conducting the election of the prime minister or the chief minister would be empowered to administer the oath of office to the winner in the contest, he said.

Responding to another query about wrapping up the National Accountability Bureau (NAB), he said that it would be a politically damaging step. However, the incumbent chairman of NAB would have to go as there was no provision of giving him an extension in service or re-appointing him.

Published in Dawn, May 2nd, 2022

So the govt is considering quashing cases against NS. Where are our constitutional scholars on this? [MENTION=135038]Major[/MENTION]
Where is the Midnight CJP?

 

[DRsohail]

So the govt is considering quashing cases against NS. Where are our constitutional scholars on this? [MENTION=135038]Major[/MENTION]
Where is the Midnight CJP?

These is now shame , PMlN is not even a party, it's a group of looters and thugs, what else you can expect from them? Naasoor for the nation, Allah ham ko es fitnay sa nijat dila.Ameen.

 

[daytrader]

Nawaz Sharif hosting Eid prayers at Avenfield

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="ur" dir="rtl">گھر ای عید گاہ گھر ہی جنازگاہ<br>عمران نیازی تیرا شکریہ<br>تو نےکسے کسے بجا دیا۔<br>ڈوب مرن دا مقام ہے ہون ہے عبرت ہے۔حالانکہ نواسہ وی تیار اے پٹواری غلاماں لئی عوام تو لک رہے۔<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/%D8%A7%D9%85%D9%BE%D9%88%D8%B1%D9%B9%DA%88_%D8%AD%DA%A9%D9%88%D9%85%D8%AA_%D9%86%D8%A7%D9%85%D9%86%D8%B8%D9%88%D8%B1?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#امپورٹڈ_حکومت_نامنظور</a> <a href="https://t.co/bSr7cvASkk">pic.twitter.com/bSr7cvASkk</a></p>— بوٹا (@B0oTaOfficial) <a href="https://twitter.com/B0oTaOfficial/status/1521267267941670912?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 2, 2022</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

 

[MenInG]

PTI Chairman and former prime minister Imran Khan on Wednesday claimed that his opponents have hired companies which are "preparing material" for his character assassination.

He expressed those views during an interview with actor Shaan Shahid on Hum News. During the interview, the actor asked the cricketer-turned-politician about marketing companies being used in politics and fifth-generation warfare.

His remarks also come as PTI-linked social media accounts have warned supporters of the dangers of "deepfakes", videos which use a form of artificial intelligence called deep learning to create life-like but fake videos of people.

"I had to face mafias, the biggest of which is the Sharif mafia [...] they always attack on a personal level because are indulging in corruption for the past 35 years. When someone [points out] their corruption, they attack a person's character," Imran said.

He said that his ex-wife Jemima Goldsmith was also targeted in the past and a campaign was run against her accusing her of being part of the "Jewish lobby". He said that a false case was also filed against her accusing her of exporting antique tiles from the country.

Continuing after a short commercial break, the former premier said that the Sharifs had made preparations to launch a character assassination drive against him after Eid.

"Now that Eid is over, you will see they are fully prepared for my character assassination. They have hired companies that are readying the material," the former premier said.

He added that 60 per cent of the federal cabinet was out on bail. "The father (Shehbaz) is on bail and so is the son (Hamza). Maryam is also out on bail and Nawaz Sharif has been convicted [while] his sons have fled abroad. So what [other] defence will they have?"

He said that in a democracy, they were required to give an answer for the allegations levelled against them. "You can't come up in any democracy if you are out on bail; you can't get any position."

The PTI chairman claimed that instead of giving an answer for the billions of rupees they had stolen, the Sharifs would now focus on his character assassination.

"What was Jemima's crime? She was my wife [...] now they have found Farah [Khan]. Farah's crime is that she is a close associate of Bushra begum (his wife)," he said.

He went on to say that the Sharifs had also made further preparations and "made tapes" similar to the ones of former chief justice of Pakistan Saqib Nisar and late Judge Arshad Malik.

"This is mafia style. I only want the nation to understand that if you want to smear anyone's name, there are companies that can help you to achieve this."

He added that the PTI had announced its long march to Islamabad by the end of May due to which the Sharifs wanted to lower his respect in the eyes of the public and assassinate his character.

"But they have been doing this before too. This is not something new."

Campaign for 'true freedom' to begin from Mianwali
Earlier today, the PTI chairman announced that he would be kicking off his campaign for "true freedom" from Friday (May 6) by staging a rally in Mianwali.

In a video message, he said that he would be coming to Mianwali before Maghrib prayers. He stated that this campaign was part of the movement to rid the country of the "imported government".

"I am starting with the people that got me elected to the National Assembly for the first time," he said, calling on citizens to participate in the rally.

DAWN

 

[Bewal Express]

PTI Chairman and former prime minister Imran Khan on Wednesday claimed that his opponents have hired companies which are "preparing material" for his character assassination.

He expressed those views during an interview with actor Shaan Shahid on Hum News. During the interview, the actor asked the cricketer-turned-politician about marketing companies being used in politics and fifth-generation warfare.

His remarks also come as PTI-linked social media accounts have warned supporters of the dangers of "deepfakes", videos which use a form of artificial intelligence called deep learning to create life-like but fake videos of people.

"I had to face mafias, the biggest of which is the Sharif mafia [...] they always attack on a personal level because are indulging in corruption for the past 35 years. When someone [points out] their corruption, they attack a person's character," Imran said.

He said that his ex-wife Jemima Goldsmith was also targeted in the past and a campaign was run against her accusing her of being part of the "Jewish lobby". He said that a false case was also filed against her accusing her of exporting antique tiles from the country.

Continuing after a short commercial break, the former premier said that the Sharifs had made preparations to launch a character assassination drive against him after Eid.

"Now that Eid is over, you will see they are fully prepared for my character assassination. They have hired companies that are readying the material," the former premier said.

He added that 60 per cent of the federal cabinet was out on bail. "The father (Shehbaz) is on bail and so is the son (Hamza). Maryam is also out on bail and Nawaz Sharif has been convicted [while] his sons have fled abroad. So what [other] defence will they have?"

He said that in a democracy, they were required to give an answer for the allegations levelled against them. "You can't come up in any democracy if you are out on bail; you can't get any position."

The PTI chairman claimed that instead of giving an answer for the billions of rupees they had stolen, the Sharifs would now focus on his character assassination.

"What was Jemima's crime? She was my wife [...] now they have found Farah [Khan]. Farah's crime is that she is a close associate of Bushra begum (his wife)," he said.

He went on to say that the Sharifs had also made further preparations and "made tapes" similar to the ones of former chief justice of Pakistan Saqib Nisar and late Judge Arshad Malik.

"This is mafia style. I only want the nation to understand that if you want to smear anyone's name, there are companies that can help you to achieve this."

He added that the PTI had announced its long march to Islamabad by the end of May due to which the Sharifs wanted to lower his respect in the eyes of the public and assassinate his character.

"But they have been doing this before too. This is not something new."

Campaign for 'true freedom' to begin from Mianwali
Earlier today, the PTI chairman announced that he would be kicking off his campaign for "true freedom" from Friday (May 6) by staging a rally in Mianwali.

In a video message, he said that he would be coming to Mianwali before Maghrib prayers. He stated that this campaign was part of the movement to rid the country of the "imported government".

"I am starting with the people that got me elected to the National Assembly for the first time," he said, calling on citizens to participate in the rally.

DAWN

Nooras and their porno productions. Nani has a whole studio for this.

 

[saeedhk]

There are videos of Imran Khan where he is seen in a compromised condition with various personalities and these videos are coming out soon according to buzz on social media.

 

[IMMY69]

There are videos of Imran Khan where he is seen in a compromised condition with various personalities and these videos are coming out soon according to buzz on social media.

Lets hope they get the calligraphy right this time.

 

[MenInG]

There are videos of Imran Khan where he is seen in a compromised condition with various personalities and these videos are coming out soon according to buzz on social media.

As they say "aane do"

Seems Sharifs doing overtime now.

 

[MenInG]

There are videos of Imran Khan where he is seen in a compromised condition with various personalities and these videos are coming out soon according to buzz on social media.

As they say "aane do"

Seems Sharifs doing overtime.

Also this

LONDON: A British Pakistani businessman has launched 150 iconic red double-decker buses carrying slogan of “Emerging Pakistan” with pictures of Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and PML-N supremo Nawaz Sharif.

 

[MenInG]

RAWALPINDI: Former interior minister Shiekh Rasheed Ahmad on Thursday said that he and former prime minister Imran Khan were aware of the "meetings" PML-N supremo Nawaz Sharif held in London.

"The imported government was imposed with a majority in the National Assembly after Shehbaz Sharif resorted to bootlicking," Rasheed said during an interaction with the journalists in Rawalpindi.

The Awami Muslim League chairman said that the "imported" government would fall if PML-Q leader Chaudhry Saalik Hussain and Tariq Bashir Cheema or a few members from BAP, MQM-P or GDA were to detach themselves from it.

"This government came to power with a two-vote majority," he said.

He further stated that institutions alone shouldn't be blamed and asked those who are holding the establishment responsible for Imran Khan's ouster should stop doing so.

"The army is a great institution of Pakistan which has sacrificed a lot," he said.

Rasheed went on to say that he had predicted that the PTI-led government would have a difficult time in the month of March.

GEO

 

[MenInG]

Former prime minister Imran Khan on Thursday said that he wanted to pursue an independent foreign policy whether or not "someone" liked it, nearly three weeks after he was ousted from power after a no-trust vote by the parliament.

"My independent foreign policy was clear from day one," Imran told interviewers during a podcast while commenting on the reasons for his rift with the establishment.

"If someone didn't like it, then I don't know about it," he said and went on to add that it was his prerogative as the prime minister and the chief executive of the country to pursue the same.

While responding to another question about his party Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf's ties with the establishment, Imran rubbished speculation that he wanted Lt-Gen Faiz Hameed to be the next army chief.

"I wanted him to continue serving as the director-general of the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) during the difficult winter season when the fallout of the Afghan infighting was imminent.

"You don't replace an intelligence chief during difficult circumstances," he said and added that instead, there arose speculations that he wanted Lt-Gen Faiz to be the next army chief.

The PTI chief further said that he couldn't even think about appointing an army chief against the rules of merit.

Imran also said that unlike Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) supremo Nawaz Sharif, he never wanted to control the army as he had a 'clean record' and didn't fear anyone.

The former premier also criticised policy of "neutrality" of the institutions, saying "one is only supporting falsehood if they choose to remain neutral in a battle between truth and falsehood".

On April 10, Imran Khan, the 22nd prime minister of Pakistan, became the first chief executive to be removed from office after losing majority in the National Assembly.

Khan’s PTI party, which governed the country for over three-and-a-half years, had been struggling to stay in power as its allies betrayed and joined hands with the opposition parties that had joined forces against his government.

While Pakistan’s history has been marred with political instability, no prime minister has ever been removed from office through a no-trust motion.

https://tribune.com.pk/story/2355352/pursuing-independent-foreign-policy-was-my-prerogative-imran

 

[MenInG]

Former prime minister Imran Khan on Thursday said that he wanted to pursue an independent foreign policy whether or not "someone" liked it, nearly three weeks after he was ousted from power after a no-trust vote by the parliament.

"My independent foreign policy was clear from day one," Imran told interviewers during a podcast while commenting on the reasons for his rift with the establishment.

"If someone didn't like it, then I don't know about it," he said and went on to add that it was his prerogative as the prime minister and the chief executive of the country to pursue the same.

While responding to another question about his party Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf's ties with the establishment, Imran rubbished speculation that he wanted Lt-Gen Faiz Hameed to be the next army chief.

"I wanted him to continue serving as the director-general of the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) during the difficult winter season when the fallout of the Afghan infighting was imminent.

"You don't replace an intelligence chief during difficult circumstances," he said and added that instead, there arose speculations that he wanted Lt-Gen Faiz to be the next army chief.

Also read: Imran Khan – the first Pakistani PM to be ousted through no-trust vote

The PTI chief further said that he couldn't even think about appointing an army chief against the rules of merit.

Imran also said that unlike Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) supremo Nawaz Sharif, he never wanted to control the army as he had a 'clean record' and didn't fear anyone.

The former premier also criticised policy of "neutrality" of the institutions, saying "one is only supporting falsehood if they choose to remain neutral in a battle between truth and falsehood".

On April 10, Imran Khan, the 22nd prime minister of Pakistan, became the first chief executive to be removed from office after losing majority in the National Assembly.

Khan’s PTI party, which governed the country for over three-and-a-half years, had been struggling to stay in power as its allies betrayed and joined hands with the opposition parties that had joined forces against his government.

While Pakistan’s history has been marred with political instability, no prime minister has ever been removed from office through a no-trust motion.

Express Tribune

 

[MenInG]

Former prime minister Imran Khan on Thursday said he could not even think of appointing an army chief against the rules of merit and rubbished speculations that he wanted former Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) director general Lt Gen Faiz Hameed to be appointed to that post.

The PTI chairman added that he wanted to pursue an independent foreign policy whether "someone" liked it or not. "My independent foreign policy was clear from day one," Imran told interviewers during a podcast while commenting on the reasons for his rifts with the security establishment.

"If someone didn't like it, then I don't know about it," he said and went on to add that it was his prerogative as the prime minister and the chief executive of the country to pursue this policy.

Talking about Lt Gen Faiz, Imran said he wanted him to continue serving as the ISI chief during the difficult winter season when the fallout of the Afghan infighting was imminent.

"You don't replace an intelligence chief during difficult circumstances," he added. “[Because of that] there arose speculations that I wanted Lt Gen Faiz to be the next army chief.”

Imran also claimed that unlike PML-N supremo Nawaz Sharif, he never wanted to control the army as he had a “clean record” and “did not fear anyone”.

"I have never had an issue with army because I have never interfered [in their affairs]. I never wanted to bring my own army chief. I always wanted to strengthen the institutions of army, police and judiciary.”

Last year, reports had surfaced of an alleged standoff between the military and the PTI-led government over the appointment of Lt Gen Nadeem Anjum as the new ISI chief.

The army had announced on October 6, 2021 that the former ISI chief, Lt Gen Faiz Hameed, had been appointed the Peshawar corps commander, while Lt Gen Anjum was appointed in his place.

But the Prime Minister’s Office had not issued an official notification of Lt Gen Anjum's appointment until three weeks later, leading to speculations of rifts in civil-military relations.

After delays, the Prime Minister’s Office had eventually notified the appointment of Lt Gen Anjum as the new ISI chief on October 26.

The former premier also criticised the policy of "neutrality" of institutions. “One is only supporting falsehood if they choose to remain neutral in a battle between truth and falsehood.”

The former premier claimed that an independent foreign policy did not mean that his government was anti-America. “In fact, I would say I am not even anti-Indian. I am against the racist policies and Kashmir policies of BJP and RSS. Even in America, I had good relations with the Trump administration."

Imran claimed that the reason the US turned against him was that he was unwilling to compromise on the policies that benefitted the 22 billion people of Pakistan.

"They [the US] wanted us to cancel the Russia trip, stop trade with them, and limit [our] relationship with China. They are asking for bases here to stop international terrorism in Afghanistan," he added. “I would never let Pakistan sabotage itself in someone else's war.”

He further claimed that the US thought they could use Pakistan like a tissue paper, like they did during the war on terror. "This is the number one reason why they conspired [against me] and then they found receptive people."

Imran also disclosed the reason for his fallout with PTI leaders Jahangir Khan Tareen and Aleem Khan.
He added that the differences with Tareen arose when his government started investigating the sugar scandal, whereas Aleem wanted to legalise a 300-acre land he had “illegally” bought along the bed of the River Ravi.

On Friday while addressing a gathering in his hometown Mianwali, Imran told his party activists to remain prepared for the long march to Islamabad, saying he would announce the final date any day after May 20.

He added that “a sea of people” would reach Islamabad to demand fresh elections. "Let people decide who will rule us. We will not accept any imported government."

Referring to his former aide Shahbaz Gill's recent accident, Imran warned the government that if it touched any PTI activist in the future, he would hold the "three stooges and their handlers" responsible.
Imran pledged to continue his "jihad" against the incumbent government’s leaders, who he described as "looters".

"[PM] Shehbaz Sharif, you lodged a false FIR against me, and jailed [MNA] Rashid Shafique [in connection with the Masjid-i-Nabwi incident]. Our women and children will take part in the march in Islamabad. If you try to stop it or lodge a similar FIR, then you will be responsible for what will happen.”

He claimed that the PTI's Punjab government was toppled through bribery, adding that the then-opposition should be ashamed of paying people to switch loyalties. He questioned the judiciary why it had not taken suo motu action over the events.

"If our courts can be opened at midnight, why can’t these thieves be disqualified? If these looters come to your constituencies, you have to decide about them. These people who betrayed their country, the Constitution, nation and voters should be taught a lesson by you so that in future, they should be afraid of repeating such actions."

The PTI chairman is holding a series of rallies, starting from Mianwali to May 20. Azhar Mashwani, a party leader, tweeted that the next rally would take place in Jhelum on May 10, followed by Attock on May 12, Sialkot on May 14, Faisalabad on May 15 and Chakwal on May 19.

Express Tribune

 

[MenInG]

ISLAMABAD: PTI Chairman Imran Khan Monday termed his anti-government campaign a "jihad" and said it was not political, as he slammed the Sharifs for being a family of "liars".

In his address to party workers, the ousted prime minister who is campaigning for PTI's Islamabad march claimed the government wants to arrest him but warned it that all "plans" against him would backfire.

Khan said, "criminals" were sitting in the Parliament and wondered how would Pakistan progress if the "corrupt" people ruled the country. He claimed that India celebrated when the incumbent government came into power.

"I have no properties outside, I will stay in Pakistan [...] I will never want something which damages my country," the PTI chairman said, slamming the government for "having an FIR registered" against him.

Faisalabad police had last week registered a case against 150 people, including former prime minister Khan, for allegedly harassing and stopping Pakistani pilgrims from performing their rituals at Masjid-e-Nabawi (PBUH) earlier this week.

But Interior Minister Rana Sanaullah clarified last Tuesday that the government did not have a first information report (FIR) registered against the PTI chairman.

The 'one' demand

Moving on, the PTI chairman said his party only wanted one thing: early elections — which has been the PTI's demand after their ousted as it has refused to accept the new government.

Khan told his workers that he would give the call to Islamabad after May 20 and asked the workers who could not join him in the federal capital to protest in their respective cities once the march begins.

The PTI chairman said it was incumbent on his party workers to reach out to the people, engage them, and ask them to participate in the anti-government protest.

'Record' economic growth
Talking about when he was in power, Khan said overseas Pakistanis had sent unprecedented remittances and had it not been for their money, the country would have defaulted.

"Overseas Pakistanis send their money to Pakistan, and the corrupt leaders here siphon it abroad," referring to the government leaders. "Tell me, which country's prime minister lives in the most expensive area of London?"

The ex-prime minister said when his party came into power, the external debt was at a historic high of $20 billion. "But we brought in the most dollars and increased the exports."

The PTI chairman said there was record agricultural growth during their tenure and unemployment was also substantially reduced. He added that his government, despite facing COVID, saved the economy.

GEO

 

[MenInG]

Responding to the backlash he received after delivering an "anti-state" speech a day earlier, former prime minister and Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf Chairman Imran Khan on Monday said that he will never do anything to damage the country saying he will always live here and never escape to London like former prime minister Nawaz Sharif.

The former premier has been accused of targeting the military, albeit in a subtle manner. In his latest public rally on Sunday in Abbottabad, the PTI chairman once again said “only animals were neutral” in remarks apparently aimed at the military leadership, which did not take any side when he was ousted from power through a no-trust move.

The remarks prompted a response from Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, saying that Imran’s speech was “a grand conspiracy against Pakistan” and its institutions.

The premier’s statement came on the heels of military spokesperson’s statement warning politicians, journalists and analysts against dragging Pakistan Army and its leadership in the country’s political affairs, saying that the practice is “extremely damaging”.

"Imran Khan will live and die in Pakistan... I have no properties abroad I have no bank accounts I will never escape to London... We have to live here. We know the importance of strong institutions whether it is the army or judiciary... we will never damage our country because we will always live here," Imran Khan said while addressing party workers in Islamabad.

Criticising PM Shehbaz for pointing fingers at him, he said his elder brother used to badmouth the army and that too only after leaving the country.

"Now he's saying that he's the saviour of the army... his elder brother not too long ago used to say bad things about this army. Who are you to say that we're talking about the army?" he added.

Taking aim at Nawaz's daughter PML-N Vice President Maryam Nawaz, Imran said that she was only spared for her anti-army narrative because she was a woman. "The elder one (Nawaz) used to say bad things about army abroad and his daughter used to do the same here and because she was a woman no one used to say anything to her but both her brothers left the country," he added.

He said what he was doing was no less than "jihad" and added that Shehbaz Sharif and Nawaz Sharif were real Mir Jaffars and Mir Sadiqs of the country.

"India is most happy when you (Shehbaz) came into power and I was removed. Why is India happy? Because they know your elder brother Nawaz Sharif talks bad about his own army," he said and added that Nawaz Sharif used to meet Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi secretly in Kathmandu.

"What were Dawn leaks? Simply, it was a message to India that our army is now in our control."

Imran Khan said that the current government should be ashamed for lodging FIR against them for the unruly incident in Madina. "We didn't even know they (the government members) were in Madina... we were busy with our Lailatul Qadr preparations," he added.

He claimed that Shehbaz Sharif has killed most people in police encounters and now a "criminal" is heading the interior ministry of the country, in a reference to Rana Sanaullah.

"Wherever you go, you will hear slogans such as thieves and traitors," he added.

Urging his workers not to respond, Imran urged them to prepare for his upcoming long march to Islamabad, which, according to him, will change the course of Pakistan.

"Those who can't come to Islamabad should protest in their own city. I will tell you what we will do in Islamabad when you will reach the capital. I have never seen such awareness... they have no idea where they have brought this nation. Whatever they plan, it will only backfire."

Reiterating his stance on the "threat letter" by the US, he challenged that America would have never sent such a "threat" to India as it would know it will draw a strong reaction.

"They say such things to us because they know we won't take a stand... they use us like tissue paper. They knew cherry blossom (Shehbaz Sharif) will be the next prime minister," he added.

"They have imposed this dirt upon our country... they have imposed thieves upon us. They have made a joke of this country and its constitution."

Saying that his long march would change the course of this country, Imran Khan urged everyone to participate. "When people become a nation they can achieve everything," he further said.

Express Tribune

 

[daytrader]

Sharjeel blasts Imran over 'liberating Sindh' remarks
Provincial information minister tells former prime minister to 'try his luck as he did in 2018 general election'

KARACHI:
Hours after former prime minister Imran Khan said he would "liberate Sindh" from Asif Zardari, provincial Information Minister Sharjeel Inam Memon said the province won't give any weightage to the narrative.

"The people of Sindh are politically aware and they know what decisions they should make," Memon said in a statement.

He added that the people of the province won't fall into the trap of a "cunning man and a liar."

The Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) leader reminded Imran of how the people of Sindh defeated his candidates in the 2018 general elections.

"You may try your luck but the people of the province won't be giving you any weightage," he maintained.

Also read: Sharjeel fires broadside at Imran over 'anti-state' speech

On the other hand, he said, even the worst opponents of the former president approved of his political wisdom and decisions. "You can't save yourself by levelling allegations against your rivals," he told Imran Khan.

Earlier today, Imran lashed out at PPP leaders, saying that he would soon visit Sindh and rid the province of former president Asif Zardari.

"I am coming to Sindh and I promise to the nation that I will liberate the province from Asif Ali Zardari," Imran told a public gathering in Jhelum.

He vowed to hold Zardari as well as the party's chairman Bilawal Bhutto for 'suppressing and looting' the people of the province.

“You have looted the nation and sent money abroad! I told you I will become more dangerous for you when not in power," Imran remarked.

‘Anti-state’ rhetoric

The PPP leader also took Imran to task over his ‘anti state’ rhetoric, saying he was bent on pushing the country towards unrest.

He claimed that the PTI chief didn’t accord any importance to the state or its institutions. “Imran Niazi thinks of himself as someone above the law and the Constitution.”

Sharjeel reiterated that the national leadership and the masses will respond sternly to the former premier’s 'anti-state' propaganda.
https://tribune.com.pk/story/2355971/sharjeel-blasts-imran-over-liberating-sindh-remarks

 

[MenInG]

Former prime minister and Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Chairman Imran Khan has warned the unity government to give him the date for fresh elections or “the ocean of people that is coming to Islamabad will wash away everything”.

"I am giving you warning if you don't give us election date, the ocean of people coming to Islamabad will blow you away," he said while addressing a massive public gathering in Mardan on Friday.

Calling former prime minister Nawaz Sharif the "biggest coward he has seen in his entire life", Imran said that he cannot make decisions of the nation by sitting in London. "Only people of this country have that right... they will decide who will lead them," he added.

The public gathering is part of protests announced by the former ruling party as it continues to up the ante against the coalition government. Imran Khan had said he will announce the date for his long march to Islamabad anytime after May 20.

Lashing out at JUI-F Amir Maulana Fazlur Rehman, Imran said that he has snatched the ministry which will fetch him the most money. "I am not calling Fazlur Rehman a maulana as I respect clerics a lot ... I am only calling him diesel now," he added.

Asking people to break the "shackles of fear" and join him in Islamabad, the former premier said that despite campaigns against him in the media, the Almighty gave him honour and proof of this are the people coming to this rally.

"These US slaves will never let this nation become a great nation."

'Neutrals'

The PTI chief said he went to those who could've stopped the "conspiracy" from materialising but they did nothing. "I told them if this succeeds, economy will go into tailspin... I sent Shaukat to those who call themselves neutral but unfortunately they did not stop it."

The former PM said that the rupee is now at almost Rs200 and the economic downfall can be witnessed by everyone.

He questioned why the media now is not going door-to-door and asking people about inflation

"I know who is part of this conspiracy.... each face is saved in my memory. I want Chief Justice of Supreme Court to form a commission and ask them to find out about the traitors," he added.

US ties

Imran Khan said that Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari will go to the US only to beg in front of the Americans.

"He will not be able to take any stand against them as they know where his money is... he will only beg for money but I know Americans the best... they will say there is no free lunch... they will put a price on it and what will be the price? It will be your freedom," he added.

The PTI chief said that the US will ask Pakistan to give statements against Russia and in favour of Ukraine.

"They asked me but I said it is not our war. When slaves are in power, they will do whatever their masters say," he added.

Chief election commissioner

Imran Khan said that transparent elections cannot take place under the current chief election commissioner. "The entire nation knows who the lotas are but only the chief election commissioner cannot see them," he added.

Achievements

Talking about the achievements of the PTI government, he said that they managed to save people from both coronavirus and poverty. "Only 31,000 people died in Pakistan whereas five million died in India," he maintained.

"When we assumed power, the country was on the verge of bankruptcy because of the loans taken by previous governments," he said and added that his government raised 60% more tax collection and the country witnessed record exports during PTI's tenure.

"When we were on the verge of takeoff, they conspired against our government because they don't want Pakistan to become prosperous," he added.

PTI had announced that it will launch protest against the alleged foreign conspiracy of regime change and the ousting of former prime minister Imran Khan in a series of rallies throughout the country.

The party has so far managed to pull massive crowed in many cities throughout the country including Karachi, Lahore and Peshawar.

Read more: 3m will overcome all hurdles to reach capital, says Imran

Imran Khan was warmly greeted by a massive crowd at the Railway Station Ground located on Mardan-Nowshera road upon his arrival earlier.

According to media reports, an 80-feet long and 30-feet wide stage was set for the central leadership of PTI. Strict security measures were also put in place for the rally.

The former prime minister on Sunday claimed that three million people — a figure almost double the population of the capital city itself — would overcome all barricades put up by the government and reach the federal capital on his call.

Addressing a public rally in Abbottabad, the PTI chairman told his supporters to wait for his call, which could come on any day after May 20. He emphasised that his long march was aimed at “achieving real independence and democracy”.

Also read: Long march will send US message Pakistan not a puppet: Imran

“I firmly believe that no matter how many containers they will erect, more than 3 million people will reach Islamabad. The PTI supporters will reach Islamabad against the ‘imported government’,” the former prime minister said.

“This nation will never accept the robbers who came to power through an American conspiracy,” he said, adding that he could give the call for the march on any day after May 20. “Despite all barricades or hurdles, they [the government] will not be able to stop the people from coming to Islamabad

Express Tribune

 

[MenInG]

In former prime minister Imran Khan’s interaction with journalists on Friday, it became clear that he means establishment when he frequently uses the word “neutral” in his speeches, interviews and tweets.

The interaction took place at Imran Khan’s Banigala residence. He shared with journalists his perspective on where he apparently erred.

He said he was wrong in assessing that corruption was an issue for powerful quarters. In fact it was not, he learnt later. Imran Khan said that while he erred in making his assessment, the conspirators too could not gauge the magnitude of the masses’ protest against his ouster.

He said he was shocked to see the “thieves” being foisted on the country, adding that dropping an atomic bomb would have been better than handing over the helm to these people. He went on to ask if the country’s interests were not on the list of priorities of those who became part of the conspiracy against his government.

Imran Khan said those powerful people who would tell him the tales of pervious rulers’ corruption started advising him to focus on his government’s performance instead of the corruption cases of others.

Imran Khan said the thieves brought into power destroyed every institution and the judicial system, asking now which government official would probe the cases of “these criminals.”

The former premier said his government had no influence over NAB and the judiciary. Those who had the influence could have “eight or ten” people punished which would have strengthened accountability, he said and added the situation would have been different but they (the influential quarters) did not let that happen.

Imran Khan said his relationship with the establishment remained fine till the last day of his government, but there were two issues on which they did not see eye to eye.

The former prime minister said "powerful quarters" wanted Usman Buzdar removed as the chief minister. Buzdar’s removal would have divided the PTI in Punjab because various groups in the party would not have accepted anyone else.

Imran Khan said but he would tell them that there was "more corruption and governance issues in Sindh".

The second disagreement with the establishment was over the issue of the former director general of the ISI, as he wanted him to stay in the agency until winter given the situation in Afghanistan. He said he also wanted to retain the ISI chief to deal with the opposition's conspiracy against his government. He said he known about the conspiracy since June.

Imran Khan said, “I say with Allah being my witness that I had not even thought about elevating the former ISI DG as army chief.”

Imran Khan also said such decisions were invariably taken that would weaken his government. He said that in early days 30 PMLN MPAs wanted to make a forward bloc with the PTI. “This move would have finished N-League’s politics, but the powerful quarters advised those MPAs to stay where they are,” Imran Khan added.

To a question, Imran Khan said the Sharif brothers are not the only "Mir Jafars and Mir Sadiqs" as there are others also, but he would disclose their names when the time comes. He said he knows who had been meeting whom and when in London.

Imran Khan said his government’s decision of abstaining from vote in the UN on the Ukraine issue was right. Imran Khan said preparation for the long march would start from May 20.

He said many options open up when the masses take to the streets. He said he is still receiving messages from the establishment, but he has "blocked their numbers" and would only speak to them once the date for the elections is announced.

https://www.thenews.com.pk/print/957528-nuking-pakistan-better-than-bringing-in-thieves-imran