Imran Khan accused of conspiring to spread anarchy from prison, claims PM's aide

Imran Khan

Rana Sanaullah, Prime Minister's Adviser on Political and Public Affairs, stirred controversy on Saturday by alleging that imprisoned Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan was plotting to foment political chaos from inside Adiala Jail. Speaking on Geo News' 'Naya Pakistan' program, Sanaullah asserted that Imran Khan had been prohibited by the court from holding political meetings within the jail premises.

"The PTI founder is not authorised to orchestrate plans for chaos while incarcerated," Sanaullah emphasised, pointing to unspecified evidence in possession of authorities that supposedly substantiates these claims. "We don't have audio or video evidence ourselves, but those responsible for security inside the jail do," Sanaullah clarified when asked about the proof of Imran Khan's alleged activities.

Sanaullah's remarks followed complaints from leaders of the former ruling party, who asserted they were denied access to Imran Khan at Adiala Jail despite waiting for several hours. The adviser to the Prime Minister also criticised PTI's decision to stage a rally in Islamabad during the holy month of Muharram, suggesting it was aimed at sowing political turmoil, as reported by Geo News.

"The PTI's desire to hold a public rally in Muharram is inappropriate and can lead to political chaos," Sanaullah remarked, while distancing the government from the decision to deny PTI permission for the Islamabad rally, according to Geo News.

Earlier today, PTI cancelled its Islamabad rally after the federal capital's chief commissioner withdrew the No Objection Certificate (NOC) for the event in Tarnol. PTI leaders subsequently approached the Islamabad High Court seeking contempt of court proceedings against the administration for revoking the rally's permission.

Expanding on his allegations, Sanaullah suggested that foreign elements supported PTI during the riots on May 9, 2023, following Imran Khan's arrest, with the intent to destabilise Pakistan.

"Enemy countries aim to sow anarchy in Pakistan through PTI," he added, referencing the protests that targeted both civilian and military installations including Jinnah House and the General Headquarters (GHQ) in Rawalpindi, dubbed as the "Black Day" by the military, leading to arrests under the Army Act.

Regarding foreign aid allegedly received by PTI, Sanaullah indicated a willingness to disclose evidence if the federal cabinet decided to make such information public, Geo News reported.

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