Khawaja Asif alleges Imran Khan and Faiz Hamid were ‘partners in crime’
Defence Minister Khawaja Asif has accused Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan and former ISI chief Lt. Gen. (retd) Faiz Hamid of working in tandem for personal and political gains. Asif, a senior leader of the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), described their relationship as a “partnership in crime” that spanned years and contributed to significant political manoeuvres in Pakistan.
Speaking to journalists and on a television program, Asif alleged that Hamid played a pivotal role in facilitating Khan’s rise to power, starting with alleged manipulation of the 2018 general elections. He claimed the Results Transmission System (RTS) was tampered with to benefit PTI while silencing its political opponents.
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Asif further alleged that during Khan’s tenure as prime minister, plans were made to secure Hamid’s appointment as army chief, paving the way for a “10-year plan” to consolidate their power.
The defence minister also tied their collaboration to the events of May 9, 2023, when Khan’s arrest on corruption charges sparked nationwide protests. The demonstrations, marked by attacks on state installations, including the Rawalpindi General Headquarters (GHQ), were described by Asif as part of a calculated effort to create unrest and provoke discussions within the military to favor PTI’s return to power.
“Both Khan and Faiz must have attempted to stir unrest within the ranks on May 9,” Asif stated, adding that evidence backing these claims would be presented in the ongoing investigations.
The military’s media wing, Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), recently announced formal charges against Hamid, accusing him of engaging in political activities, violating the Official Secrets Act, misusing authority, and compromising state security. These violations allegedly caused significant harm to the state and individuals.
The ISPR is also investigating Hamid’s role in creating agitation, including his alleged involvement in the May 9 incidents in collaboration with political interests. It assured that Hamid would be granted all legal rights during the process.
In response, PTI leaders have distanced themselves from the matter, calling the charges against Hamid an “internal issue” of the military. PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan reiterated that the party had no connection to the allegations against Hamid.
“The party has already stated that the charge sheet against General (retd) Faiz is a matter for the military to handle,” Gohar said, dismissing any claims of PTI’s involvement in the situation.
Khawaja Asif emphasized that accountability would be ensured, with all individuals involved held responsible for their actions. He accused both Hamid and Khan of benefiting significantly from their alliance, stating, “Those who were complicit in these activities know the extent of their wrongdoing.”
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