Pakistan’s political tensions intensify, it has pledged unyielding loyalty, with one saying, “We will die but will not return without Khan.” It’s an emotional promise because there is a deep connection between the former Prime Minister and his supporters, who view him as a symbol of hope and change.
Even cricket legend-turned-politician Khan’s long-term ally, Wasim Akram also offered his endorsement. “Whatever I am today is because of my hero, my ideal, my captain Imran Khan,” Wasim Akram said during a public address recently, while driving home the former Pakistan cricketer’s staying power in politics and cricketing fields alike.
The comments come amid mass protests for his release from jail. Khan is behind bars on corruption charges for over 150 criminal cases with his Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf, or PTI, party claiming them to be politically motivated. Jailed on corruption charges, his popularity has soared; thousands have rallied in his support.
In Islamabad, protests brought everyday life to a complete standstill with roads blocked, schools shut, and internet services down. More than 4,000 people were arrested, but the demonstrations continued with slogans chanted with dogged determination.
Says analyst: Political analysts suggest that it is because of the charisma that Khan exudes and the promise of a corrupt-free Pakistan. “A break with the old political elite,” was how one commentator summed up Khan’s leadership.
The government appealed for restraint while threatening protesters with dire consequences if the violence did not end. “No one is above the law, and the courts will decide Khan’s fate,” said Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, echoing the administration’s stance.
With the evolving situation, the nation remains splintered, with those adhering to Khan’s insistence on his fantasy as the political outlook becomes grimmer.
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