Imran Khan, the former Prime Minister of Pakistan, has made a bold statement from behind bars, declaring that he would rather serve nine more years in prison than strike a deal with those he believes have “enslaved” the country. In a message released on the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party’s 28th Foundation Day, Khan condemned the dictatorship that he believes is destroying the nation’s economy, government, democracy, and judiciary.
Since his removal from power in a no-confidence motion in April 2022, Khan has faced multiple convictions and has been imprisoned at Adiala Jail in Rawalpindi. His party, PTI, has also faced crackdowns and pressure following his arrest last year.
Despite recent overtures from other political parties, Khan’s party has ruled out any talks with them, opting instead to prioritize discussions with military leadership for the country’s security and future. PTI leader Shehryar Afridi emphasized that Khan’s wish has always been to engage with the military leadership, but so far, there has been no response.
The PTI’s stance against striking deals with the establishment has been reiterated by party members, who have dismissed rumors of secret talks and pressure on Khan to accept a deal. Despite winning over 90 seats in the National Assembly in the recent general election, PTI was sidelined from forming a federal government, with power assumed by a post-poll alliance led by Nawaz Sharif’s PMN-L and the PPP.
Khan’s unwavering commitment to his principles and refusal to compromise on the nation’s freedom has sparked a debate on the future of Pakistan’s political landscape and the role of its military in shaping it.