PTI Protests End Abruptly: Aleema Khan Reveals Imran Khan’s “Trump Card”
The Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) faced a sudden halt to its highly anticipated “final call” protest in Islamabad, aimed at securing the release of its founder, Imran Khan. Following the protest’s abrupt conclusion, Aleema Khan, the sister of the jailed PTI leader, addressed the media, shedding light on his situation and future plans.
Imran Khan’s “Trump Card”
Aleema revealed that her brother has a strategic move he considers his “trump card,” which he has decided not to disclose at this time. She emphasized that Imran Khan remains steadfast and focused despite his imprisonment.
Denied Visit and Health Update
Aleema shared her frustration at being denied a meeting with Imran Khan after waiting for six hours at Rawalpindi’s Adiala Jail. However, she assured the public that rumors of his deteriorating health are false, stating that he is “completely fine.”
Limited Access to Information
Imran Khan has no access to news through television or newspapers while in jail. According to Aleema, he relies on updates from his lawyers, who informed him about the outcomes of the Islamabad protest and the subsequent government crackdown.
Casualties and Violence
The protests turned violent, resulting in significant casualties. Official reports confirmed the deaths of four law enforcement officers, including three Rangers and one police officer. PTI, however, claimed that at least 12 of its supporters were killed during the clashes.
Legal Actions Ordered by Imran Khan
Upon learning of the deaths, Imran Khan expressed shock and instructed his team to register a first information report (FIR) against Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi. He also called for the incident to be raised at both national and international forums, condemning the government’s use of force against protesters.
Criticism of PTI Leadership
Aleema openly criticized PTI’s leadership for their lack of presence during the protests. She remarked that key leaders should have been on the container leading the demonstrations instead of leaving Bushra Bibi to represent the movement.
Crackdown and Arrests
The protests witnessed a significant crackdown by Islamabad police, resulting in hundreds of arrests of PTI workers and supporters. The government’s actions have drawn criticism from PTI and human rights groups for suppressing dissent.
New Legal Challenges for Imran Khan
As the protests unfolded, Imran Khan was hit with seven additional cases related to the demonstrations, further complicating his legal situation and putting additional pressure on PTI’s leadership.
Protest Ends Abruptly
PTI’s much-publicized protest began on November 24 but ended abruptly in the early hours of November 27. The sudden halt came after a late-night police crackdown at D-Chowk, leaving supporters disheartened and the party’s next steps uncertain.
This latest development adds to the ongoing political turmoil in Pakistan, as PTI faces mounting challenges both on the streets and in legal battles. The coming days will be crucial in determining the direction of the party and the future of its leadership.
