Have no contact with establishment: Imran

ISLAMABAD: Former prime minister and Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder chairman Imran Khan said Monday stated that he has no contact with the establishment, clarifying that any future discussions will be only be held if it is in the nation’s interest.

Speaking informally to media after a court hearing at Rawalpindi’s Adiala Jail regarding the £190m case, Imran highlighted the critical need for robust institutions in Pakistan.

Imran expressed his belief that the actions being taken by the authorities are detrimental to the country’s stability. He remarked, “Only sheep and goats can be controlled with sticks, not humans. What they are doing is suicide.”

Imran also commented on his current conditions in jail, noting he is receiving a harsh treatment. “I have been placed in a room like an oven, yet I seek no relief.” The PTI founder criticised the leadership of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), questioning the qualifications of Mohsin Naqvi, who he claims was appointed despite being implicated in a 2008 NAB case.

Imran Khan expressed his admiration for the Pakistan Army, noting that “people love the army because they defend us.” Drawing a parallel with Bangladesh, he remarked, “When the people in Bangladesh came out, they claimed their rights.”

During the hearing of the case, the former prime minister expressed concerns about rats’ infestation in his spouse’s cell at Adiala Jail. Bushra Bibi also told the judge there were are rats in her prison cell.

The judge summoned the jail officials and asked them about the problem in Bushra Bibi’s cell. On it, Deputy Superintendent Tahir Siddique Shah told the court that they had not been aware of such problem. However, he assured the court that it would be addressed soon.

The defence lawyers were absent which prevented the 10th consecutive cross-examination of the witnesses. The court, however, granted the defence lawyers another opportunity to cross-examine the witnesses. The further hearing of case was adjourned till August 29.