Minister Reveals Plans to Ban Imran Khan’s Party
The federal government in Pakistan has announced its decision to ban the Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI) party for its alleged ties to ‘anti-state’ elements. Information Minister Attaullah Tarar cited various reasons such as prohibited funding, involvement in high treason, and attempts to circumvent a no-confidence vote.
Tarar stated that the government would also file a review petition in the Supreme Court regarding a recent ruling in favor of PTI in a reserved seats case. Additionally, action would be taken against overseas Pakistanis involved in anti-state activities.
The minister presented audio and video evidence of PTI’s alleged anti-state activities, including attempts to sabotage negotiations with the IMF and support for a US House resolution against Pakistan. These actions, according to Tarar, warrant the banning of PTI under Article 17 of the Constitution.
In another development, the government plans to move a reference under Article 6 against Imran Khan, Arif Alvi, Qasim Suri, and others for ‘circumventing’ a no-trust vote in 2022. The minister emphasized the government’s commitment to upholding national security and stability.
Published in Dawn, July 16th, 2024