Ex-PM Imran Khan Facing Possible Arrest Over May Riots

Published  by Hammad on 28, Aug, 2023

In a recent development, an antiterrorism court in Pakistan has granted permission for the police to question and potentially arrest former Prime Minister Imran Khan. This decision comes in relation to a case connected to an attack on an army building during the protests that ensued after Khan's brief arrest on corruption charges in May earlier this year.

Imran Khan, aged 70, is currently serving a three-year prison sentence as a result of his conviction in a separate corruption case. Despite his denial of the charges and his claim of being targeted by the government to hinder his participation in the upcoming national elections, he was found guilty and sentenced.

The antiterrorism court's approval was granted in Lahore city on Wednesday. This decision followed an application filed by the police, requesting the opportunity to question Khan regarding the incident at the Jinnah House. This location is known as the official residence of a prominent military commander in the city.

The events leading up to this situation began when Khan was apprehended by paramilitary troopers on May 9 from the premises of the Islamabad High Court. In response to his arrest, a substantial number of his supporters took to the streets in protest. These demonstrations escalated into attacks on government and military installations, with demands for Khan's release at the forefront.

One particular incident saw a group of individuals gaining entry to the residence of a military commander in Lahore. The premises were partially set ablaze as a part of the protest action.

It's important to note that this series of events has unfolded against the backdrop of Khan's legal battles and his political aspirations. Despite his ongoing challenges, Khan remains a prominent figure in Pakistani politics, with his actions and legal battles closely followed by the nation's citizens.

Legal and Political Complexities Surrounding Imran Khan's Case

Published by Hammad , on 28 Aug, 2023

 


Authorities in Pakistan have accused members of Imran Khan's political party, Pakistan Tahreek-e-Insaf (PTI), of being involved in storming the army building during the protests. The aftermath of these demonstrations resulted in a state-led crackdown, leading to the arrest of numerous PTI leaders and workers. Many of those detained remain in custody.

Amidst the crackdown, the government is pursuing a contentious course of action by planning to subject around 100 of the arrested individuals to trials in military courts under the stringent Army Act. However, this approach has drawn criticism from human rights groups, who argue that such trials lack fairness and transparency.

The recent decision by the antiterrorism court in Lahore to allow the interrogation and potential arrest of Imran Khan comes at a time when he is actively seeking legal remedies. This move follows his incarceration on August 5, which resulted from his failure to disclose gifts received from foreign governments and leaders during his tenure as prime minister from 2018 to 2022.

The legal landscape surrounding Khan has grown increasingly complex, involving both the protests that followed his arrest and his own legal troubles related to the nondisclosure of foreign gifts. The dynamics at play highlight the intricate interplay between political actions, legal proceedings, and public discourse in Pakistan's current context.