Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder and former prime minister Imran Khan on Wednesday announced a conditional apology for the May 9 events.
Addressing the media after the £190 million reference hearing at Adiala Jail, Imran Khan stressed the need for a thorough investigation through the release of CCTV footage.
Khan said that if the footage identifies any PTI members involved in the incidents, he will take strict action against them, including expulsion from the party and appropriate punishment.
He remarked: “CCTV footage from May 9 should be produced first. Referring to the role of the military, Khan drew a parallel with the 1971 Bangladesh conflict.
He said, “The army in Bangladesh supported its people by refusing to shoot people”, implying that the army should prioritize the welfare of its citizens.
Khan considers it “stupid” to ignore good relations with the military
On August 4, in an interview with the British media outlet Reuters, Imran Khan emphasized the importance of maintaining good relations with the military, saying it would be “stupid” not to do so.
In a written response to questions at Adiala prison – where he marked one year of his incarceration on August 5 – Mr Khan reiterated his belief that strengthening ties with the military was essential.
He emphasized the importance of this relationship given Pakistan’s geopolitical position and the military’s significant role in the country’s private sector.
The PTI founder has not expressed any personal grievances against the United States, although he claims the US played a role in his ouster through the 2022 no-confidence vote.