Defense Minister Khawaja Asif has claimed that former Prime Minister Imran Khan was "created" by the country’s establishment and that now the imprisoned founder of the PTI wants to return to power with the support of the United States. At a press conference in London, Asif, a senior leader of the ruling PML-N, criticized Imran for his "egocentric approach" and his alleged willingness to harm the State only to obtain political benefits. He said incidents of vandalism were planned on May 9, 2023 before Imran’s arrest in a corruption case. Asif said PTI workers attacked several defense installations and sensitive buildings across the country in a coordinated manner. Referring to the conviction of 25 rioters after their trial before military courts, Asif claimed that the court verdicts had exposed the crimes committed by the PTI on May 9. He said more such verdicts were on the way.
"The May 9 sentencing of the culprits by military courts is a milestone for Pakistan as it marks a critical step in clearing politics of elements willing to sacrifice the nation for their own political ambitions." said. The minister claimed that Imran Khan has always been a product of the establishment. He said former army chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa wanted to sideline former prime minister Nawaz Sharif by bringing Imran Khan to power. He said he was approached personally regarding the "Less Nawaz" plan and held a meeting on the matter with the permission of the PML-N leadership. Asif accused Imran of seeking support from foreign powers, particularly the United States, to regain power. "But Pakistan knows how to defend its sovereignty against any external interference," he added.
