RAWALPINDI: Imran Khan, founder of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), has expressed willingness to apologize for the May 9 riots if PTI activists are found guilty. Speaking from Adiala Jail, where he has been held since August 5 last year, Khan emphasized the need for CCTV footage to verify the involvement of his party members in the violence.
Khan stated that he would dismiss any PTI members involved in the riots and seek punishment for them. He lamented the lack of respect for popular figures in Pakistan and globally, referring to his own arrest on May 9 last year during a corruption case hearing at the Islamabad High Court.
The May 9 protests led to attacks on public and military properties, prompting the government to consider prosecuting the rioters under the Army Act. Khan has repeatedly distanced himself and his party from the violence, suggesting it was orchestrated to target the opposition.
Khan’s recent statements indicate a softened political stance, including an offer to negotiate with the military if fair elections are held and charges against his supporters are dropped. He also highlighted his desire for positive relations with the military and the United States, stressing that his criticisms were aimed at individuals, not institutions.
During an interaction, Khan admitted that PTI activists used petrol bombs at his residence in Zaman Park, Lahore, but denied similar actions elsewhere. He called for penalizing any party members involved in such incidents, based on CCTV evidence.
Khan referred to a recent press briefing by DG ISPR Lieutenant General Ahmad Sharif Chaudhry, who claimed that mafias were funding anti-Pakistan campaigns. Khan criticized the reinstatement of political rivals Nawaz Sharif and Asif Ali Zardari, whom he accused of corruption.
Khan warned of significant upcoming events in Pakistan, drawing parallels with the political situation in Bangladesh. He called for placing his political rivals on a no-fly list to prevent them from fleeing the country.
The DG ISPR recently reiterated the military’s firm stance on the May 9 protests, denying any change or discussions with PTI leadership.