The US State Department Expressed concerns on Pakistani government’s intentions to ban the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party, led by former Prime Minister Imran Khan. Washington emphasized that outlawing any political party is a serious issue.
Information Minister Ataullah Tarar revealed that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s administration is planning to ban the PTI and seek treason charges against Khan in the nation’s top court.
A State Department spokesperson acknowledged the reports, stating, “We are aware of the government’s announcements. This appears to be a complex process, and banning a political party is a significant concern for us.”
Ataullah Tarar justified the potential ban by citing alleged foreign funding received by PTI, which is illegal in Pakistan. He also mentioned last year’s riots by PTI supporters targeting military assets and Khan’s alleged leaking of state secrets related to a diplomatic cable, known as the cipher case.
Additional reasons for the ban include PTI’s lobbying in Washington for a US House resolution to investigate Pakistan’s elections and Khan’s request to the IMF for an election audit before a new bailout loan.
PTI criticized the government’s move as an attempt by the struggling coalition to undermine Khan’s growing popularity.
Imran Khan, jailed since August, was recently acquitted of charges related to his marriage but remains in custody due to new arrest orders. Imran Khan, who rose to power in 2018, was ousted in 2022 following tensions with Pakistan’s military, which denies any political role. His influence has increased since, with PTI-backed candidates securing the most seats in the February 8 elections.
