Imran Khan Calls for Thorough Investigation into May 9 Events and Alleged ‘London Plan’
ISLAMABAD / RAWALPINDI: PTI founder Imran Khan, who has distanced himself from former spy chief Lt Gen (R) Faiz Hameed following news of his court martial, expressed his support for the military’s ongoing process of ‘internal accountability’ during a conversation with reporters at Adiala Jail. The former prime minister emphasized the need for an across-the-board investigation into recent events, particularly in light of Defence Minister Khawaja Asif’s comments hinting at Lt Gen (R) Hameed’s possible involvement in the May 9 protests.
Mr. Khan, who was attending a hearing for a £190 million corruption case, stated that if Lt Gen (R) Hameed was indeed involved in the May 9 protests, it should be thoroughly investigated. He pointed out that these protests erupted following his “illegal arrest” at the Islamabad High Court (IHC) premises, and called for an inquiry into those who ordered his arrest, holding them responsible for the subsequent violence.
In his remarks, Mr. Khan accused top officials of being part of a so-called ‘London Plan’ designed to topple his government. He named the chief justice of Pakistan, the IHC chief justice, and the chief election commissioner as being part of this alleged conspiracy. The former PM also claimed that former army chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa had orchestrated a plot against the PTI government to secure his extension, which led to the removal of Lt Gen (R) Faiz Hameed from his post as ISI chief.
As the investigation into the May 9 events continues, law enforcement agencies have detained two more officials from the Punjab Prisons Department, bringing the total to three officials now under investigation. These detentions are part of the ongoing probe into finding alleged facilitators of the incarcerated PTI leader within the prison system. Surveillance around Mr. Khan’s barracks at Adiala Jail has also been intensified, with additional staff deployed to monitor the area closely.
Mr. Khan asserted that the May 9 incidents were politically motivated, and claimed that the arsonists involved could be identified through CCTV footage, which he believes would clear him of all charges. He reiterated that these events were part of a larger scheme to undermine his leadership, allegedly involving various political and judicial figures.
The former PM’s statements have added further complexity to the political landscape, as he continues to challenge the actions taken against him and his party by the military and the government.