20 January, 2025; Former Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan has launched a scathing critique of the nation’s military establishment, accusing it of gross human-rights violations and labeling its actions as indicative of a “brutal dictatorship.” The remarks were made amidst escalating tensions between Khan’s Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party and the country’s powerful military, which has long played a dominant role in Pakistan’s political landscape.
A Climate of Suppression
Khan, currently embroiled in a series of legal battles and facing detention, has alleged that the military is orchestrating a campaign of suppression against his party and its supporters. In a series of public statements and interviews, he highlighted cases of arbitrary arrests, custodial torture, and enforced disappearances targeting PTI members.
“Pakistan is witnessing a complete breakdown of rule of law,” Khan said in a recent statement. “The military is using every tool at its disposal to silence dissent and crush democratic aspirations.”
International human-rights organizations have also voiced concerns over the deteriorating human-rights situation in Pakistan. Reports of journalists being harassed, activists being detained, and political opponents being intimidated have drawn criticism from global watchdogs.
Clash with the Military
The former cricket star turned politician has repeatedly accused the military of meddling in civilian affairs, a charge that has historically been leveled against Pakistan’s armed forces. However, this marks one of the most intense public confrontations between a former prime minister and the military in recent years.
Khan’s allegations come after months of political turmoil following his ousting from office in April 2022 via a parliamentary no-confidence vote. He has since claimed that his removal was orchestrated with the military’s backing, a claim the military denies.
Calls for Change
In his recent addresses, Khan has urged Pakistan’s citizens and civil society to resist what he termed as “military tyranny.” He called for a united front to restore democratic norms and ensure accountability for human-rights violations.
“This is not just about one political party or individual,” Khan asserted. “This is about the future of Pakistan as a democratic state. We must rise against this oppression.”
International Reaction
Khan’s allegations have prompted reactions from the international community, with some countries expressing concern over Pakistan’s political instability and human-rights record. While the United Nations and other international bodies have yet to take formal action, growing scrutiny may increase pressure on Pakistan’s government and military to address these issues.
A Polarized Nation
Pakistan remains deeply divided over Khan’s political legacy. While his supporters see him as a symbol of resistance against entrenched power structures, his critics accuse him of failing to deliver on his promises during his tenure as prime minister. Nonetheless, his latest confrontation with the military underscores the ongoing struggle for civilian supremacy in Pakistan.
As the political crisis unfolds, the question remains whether Imran Khan’s call for change will galvanize a movement strong enough to challenge the status quo or further entrench the existing power dynamics. One thing is certain: the battle between democratic aspirations and authoritarian control is far from over in Pakistan.
