In the intricate web of Pakistani politics, the recent back-to-back jail sentences handed to former Prime Minister Imran Khan just a week before the parliamentary elections on February 8 illuminate a narrative of reversed roles and political turmoil, dominated by the shadowy hands of the establishment.
From Preferred Choice to Disqualification: Khan’s Precarious Journey
In 2018, Imran Khan’s ascent to power with his party, the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), was marred by accusations of electoral rigging by the Opposition. The military was alleged to favor the former cricket star, signaling a paradigm shift in power dynamics. Fast forward to 2022, and Khan finds himself disqualified and serving lengthy sentences, while his nemesis Nawaz Sharif, leader of the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), stages a political comeback.
Military’s Role in the Political Chessboard: A Troubling Pattern
The court proceedings and verdicts against Khan reveal a troubling pattern of interference from the military and other state institutions. Accused of leaking state secrets in the ‘Cipher case’ and facing charges in the Toshakhana case for retaining gifts received while in power, Khan’s legal battles unfolded against a backdrop of alleged state-sponsored repression.
Khan’s Accusations and Subsequent Backlash: Unraveling PTI’s Fortunes
Imran Khan’s fall from power in April 2022, coupled with his accusations of a conspiracy orchestrated by the military and the United States, set the stage for a tumultuous period. Khan’s claims, backed by what he purported to be a diplomatic cable, turned against him, leading to his arrest and subsequent legal challenges where his defense was allegedly compromised.
Systematic Campaign of Repression: PTI in Disarray
Since Khan’s arrest, a systematic campaign to weaken the PTI has unfolded. Many party leaders find themselves incarcerated, while others succumb to pressure or flee. The recent court decision barring the PTI from using its cricket bat symbol further underscores the challenges faced by the party. Independent contests by PTI workers and the overall disarray signal a weakened political force.
Nawaz Sharif’s Political Resurgence: A Fixed Match?
As Imran Khan languishes in jail, Nawaz Sharif appears to enjoy the support of an invisible power center, making the upcoming elections seem like a fixed match. While Sharif might make a political comeback, the overarching winner in this political drama is the military, while the true loser is Pakistan’s democracy, grappling with economic challenges amidst the unfolding political dynamics.
