Defense Minister Khawaja Asif accused former Prime Minister Imran Khan of being a “product of the establishment” and claimed that he is now seeking power with the support of the United States, Express News reported.
“Imran Khan wants to return to power on the shoulders of the United States,” Asif said during a news conference in London. He warned: “If any foreign hand tries to support the PTI, Pakistan will defend itself.”
Asif highlighted the seriousness of the May 9 attacks on sensitive facilities, describing the incidents as premeditated and meticulously planned. “The crowd was trained and strategic locations, including defense facilities, were attacked,” he said.
He praised the sentences handed down by military courts to those involved in the riots, calling them a “milestone” for Pakistan. “The faces of the convicted are now visible and more verdicts will be issued,” he added.
Narrating the political rise of Imran Khan, Asif alleged: “The establishment at that time worked to overthrow Nawaz Sharif and bring Imran Khan to power. General Bajwa was involved in this plan.” He accused Khan and his associates of corruption during his rule, saying: “Billions of rupees were siphoned off, involving Imran Khan, his family and his inner circle.”
The Defense Minister reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to safeguarding its sovereignty. “If Imran Khan had been in power during the nuclear tests, he would have pocketed $5 billion and sold the country,” he alleged.
Asif announced his intention to publish a white paper detailing corruption allegations against Khan, including cases related to the Shaukat Khanum hospital. “I will present these issues in the plenary session of the Assembly and in press conferences,” he concluded.