Asim Munir, You're A Pawn In Game Of Thrones: Imran Khan's Supporter In Washington

Supporters of Imran Khan gathered outside the Pakistan Embassy in Washington, DC, demanding his release amid ongoing protests in Pakistan. The situation highlights rising tensions over military influence in politics and the commitment of PTI supporters to advocate for democracy.

Pakistan Army Chief Asim Munir has come under attack from the supporters of jailed former Prime Minister Imran Khan in Washington, DC, in the US.

The sympathisers of Khan had gathered outside the Pakistan Embassy, demanding the release of their leader, Imran Khan and urging the Army to stay out of politics, ANI reported.

Protests Across Pakistan

In Pakistan, PTI supporters also took to the streets as part of a broader movement calling for Khan's release. Demonstrations were held in cities like Lahore and Karachi. Police detained several party members during these protests, which marked the official start of the campaign.

Faraz Ali Khan, a PTI supporter at the Washington protest, criticised the military's role in politics. He questioned Army Chief Asim Munir's long-term plans and highlighted the ongoing political instability.

"...What do the intellectuals of the military think? Do they think they can stay operational in this way? Someday it has to end, then where will Asim Munir go? I would like to ask him where he will go after 10, 15, or 20 years. They are just starting a war with everyone...There is just one problem: our (Pakistan's) military is constantly interfering in the political affairs...This military is the problem. I have come to understand that things will not work out in this way. Keep waging wars. But Asim Munir has to understand that the political process will continue. You are just a pawn in the game of many thrones. You will have to leave sooner or later..." the news agency quoted him as saying.

Imran Khan's Legal Challenges

Imran Khan has been jauled since August 5, 2023, due to charges related to state gifts. He is serving a sentence at Adiala Jail for a £190 million corruption case and faces other pending trials. These include charges from the May 9 riots.

The PTI leadership remains committed to their cause, promising to persist with protests until Khan is released. PTI leader Asad Qaiser clarified that while August 5 marked the beginning of protests, it was not intended as a final confrontation.

Police Response and Arrests

Lahore Deputy Inspector General (Operations) Faisal Kamran reported that over 30 PTI activists were arrested for attempting to block roads in various city areas. However, he denied claims that hundreds of party workers had been detained.

The former prime minister had called for nationwide demonstrations, asserting that "the movement that begins on August 5 will continue until democracy is restored in its true spirit." This statement reflects PTI's determination to see through their demands for democratic restoration.