POLITICS & POLICY MAKING

Imran Khan Admits to Using Petrol Bombs During Zaman Park Operation; Addresses Various Allegations

Imran Khan acknowledges using petrol bombs at Zaman Park but condemns their use elsewhere. In a recent jail conversation, he also commented on political corruption and the state of the nation.
2024-08-07
Imran Khan Admits to Using Petrol Bombs During Zaman Park Operation; Addresses Various Allegations

LAHORE: Former Prime Minister and PTI founder Imran Khan has admitted to journalists that petrol bombs were used during the Zaman Park operation in Lahore on May 9. Speaking from Adiala Jail, Khan confirmed that his supporters deployed petrol bombs at Zaman Park but denied their use at other locations.
In response to queries about videos showing local officials throwing petrol bombs at sensitive buildings, Khan stated that if any PTI official was involved in such acts, they should face severe punishment.
Khan also commented on broader political issues, criticizing what he described as a mafia running an anti-Pakistan campaign. He claimed that corruption allegations against Nawaz Sharif and Asif Zardari were being ignored, with these figures being re-elected through rigged elections.
He expressed concern about the current state of Pakistan, comparing it unfavorably to Bangladesh and suggesting that significant upheaval may be imminent. Khan stressed the need for national unity and protection of the military institution.
Regarding the violence on May 9, Khan mentioned that 16 of his supporters were killed but cited police pressure as the reason PTI had not released their names.
When asked about his views on Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, Khan clarified that his previous remarks were based on findings from the Hamudur Rehman Commission and not his own opinions. He expressed concern that figures like Nawaz Sharif and Asif Zardari might not face accountability and suggested that they, along with other political figures, should be placed on the Exit Control List (ECL).
In addressing why certain PTI members who had left the country had not been recalled, Khan remarked on the inadequacies of the legal system, asserting that trials were ineffective.
Khan declined to comment on PTI member Sher Afzal Marwat when questioned.