Imran Khan’s trajectory from cricket hero to political leader has been a tumultuous saga, culminating in the rejection of his 2024 election nomination. The PTI’s downfall, marked by controversies, an assassination attempt, and legal battles, paints a vivid picture of the challenges faced during his tenure. As he grapples with conviction and disqualification, the former prime minister’s political future hangs in the balance. The narrative encapsulates the highs and lows, leaving an indelible mark on Pakistan’s political landscape.
Imran Khan: The Rise and Fall of a Political Icon
Early Years and Cricket Glory
Born in Lahore in 1952, Imran Khan initially gained fame as a cricketer, leading Pakistan to its only ODI World Cup victory in 1992. Following retirement, he delved into philanthropy and founded the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) in 1996.
PTI’s Limited Success and Political Awakening
While the PTI saw limited success until 2011, Imran started gaining attention from disenchanted youth, capitalizing on issues like massive corruption and an unemployment crisis.
2013 Elections and Allegations of Rigging
After the 2013 elections, Imran alleged widespread rigging, leading to a months-long sit-in in Islamabad, only to call it off after a tragic attack on the Army Public School in Peshawar.
Prime Ministership and Historic Ouster
Imran’s popularity surged before the 2018 elections, leading to a controversial victory and his oath as the 22nd prime minister. However, challenges such as the Covid-19 pandemic, inflation, and differences with allies ensued. His relations with the military leadership soured, leading to his historic ouster in 2022.
Political Fallout and Ouster Fallout
Opposition parties formed the Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM) to challenge Imran’s government. A no-confidence bill was tabled, leading to his ouster on April 10, 2022. Imran’s attempt to force early elections by resigning and dissolving assemblies faced failure.
Imran’s Blame Game and Long March
Frustrated, Imran blamed the US and former army chief Qamar Javed Bajwa for conspiring against him. In October 2022, he launched a long march to Islamabad for “true freedom,” criticizing intelligence officials.
Assassination Attempt and Continued Struggles
On November 3, 2022, an assassination attempt on Imran during the long march led to multiple bullet injuries. Despite claims to avoid bloodshed, Imran continued to blame intelligence officials and Bajwa for his ouster.
Arrests, Conviction, and Disqualification
Imran’s legal battles intensified in 2022. He was arrested in the Al-Qadir Trust case, leading to violent protests. Though released on bail, he faced further arrest in the Toshakhana case, resulting in a three-year sentence, disqualification, and the stripping of party chairmanship.
Rejected Nomination for 2024 Elections
Imran’s attempt to contest the 2024 elections faced a setback as his nomination papers were rejected due to the Toshakhana case conviction. Legal appeals were turned down, leaving his political future uncertain.
Imran Khan’s Key Stances and Controversies
Vision for Pakistan
Imran aimed to transform Pakistan into an Islamic welfare state, drawing inspiration from the model of Riyasat-i-Madina. His government launched Ehsaas programs and expanded the Sehat Insaf Card scheme.
Criticism of US War on Terror
Imran criticized Pakistan’s role in the US war on terror, terming it a “self-inflicted wound.” He vehemently opposed the use of Pakistani territory for any US action in Afghanistan.
Controversial Statements and Allegations
Imran faced criticism for alleged sexist remarks and victim-blaming. He made controversial statements about rape victims, blaming social media and “vulgarity.”
Blame Game and Criticism of Military Leadership
Following his ouster, Imran blamed the US for conspiring against him, later retracting the claim. He vociferously criticized the military and intelligence leadership for his removal and an alleged assassination attempt.
Focus on Overseas Pakistanis
Imran emphasized overseas Pakistanis as the country’s “biggest assets” and advocated for granting them the right to vote, even moving the Supreme Court for this cause.
Accountability Drive and Opposition Claims
Imran promised “ruthless accountability,” but the opposition labeled it a politically motivated witch-hunt. The government formed a ‘Recovery Unit’ to bring back looted wealth from abroad.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)
Q: What led to Imran Khan’s ouster from the prime ministerial position in 2022?
A: Imran Khan faced ouster following a no-confidence motion initiated by the Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM) amid various challenges and controversies.
Q: Why were Imran Khan’s nomination papers rejected for the 2024 elections?
A: Imran Khan’s nomination faced rejection due to his conviction in the Toshakhana case.
Q: What are the key controversies surrounding Imran Khan post-2022?
A: Imran Khan has been embroiled in controversies, including the Toshakhana case, an assassination attempt, and accusations against the US and military leadership.
Q: How did the PTI respond to Imran Khan’s ouster?
A: The PTI responded by resigning from National Assembly seats and dissolving provincial assemblies in an attempt to force early elections, but this strategy did not succeed.
Q: What is the current legal status of Imran Khan after his conviction in the Toshakhana case?
A: Imran Khan was initially arrested and convicted but later released on bail. However, he remains in jail facing other cases, including the cipher case, and has been disqualified from holding office.
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