EXPLAINER
Nationwide riots on this ‘dark day’ last year triggered a months-long political crisis that saw ex-PM Imran Khan jailed, and a crackdown on his party.
The Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party is set to hold rallies nationwide on Thursday to commemorate the one-year anniversary of the arrest of its leader and former Prime Minister Imran Khan.
Khan, a former cricketer turned politician, was arrested last year on the same day, leading to a prolonged political crisis that culminated in his imprisonment on serious charges and a government crackdown on his party.
Despite being in his seventies, Khan continues to be entangled in various legal cases and is currently incarcerated in Rawalpindi’s Adiala jail.
Here is a recap of the events leading up to Khan’s arrest on May 9, 2023, and the significant developments since then.
2022
April 10: Khan loses a no-confidence vote, alleging a US-backed conspiracy, leading to his removal from power.
October 21: Khan is disqualified as a member of parliament for corrupt practices.
November 3: An assassination attempt is made on Khan during a protest demanding snap elections.
2023
May 9: Khan is arrested, sparking nationwide protests by his supporters accusing the military of orchestrating the arrest, although the military denies any involvement.
Amid escalating protests, Pakistan’s Supreme Court declares Khan’s arrest illegal, ordering his immediate release on May 11.
This arrest sets in motion a series of events, including further arrests and legal battles, ultimately leading to Khan’s conviction and imprisonment in several cases.
2024 brings more challenges for Khan, including party bans and additional legal sentences, further complicating his political future.