Imran Khan Emphasizes Importance of Good Relations with Military from Adiala Jail

In a written response to questions from Reuters at Adiala Jail, where he will mark one year of his imprisonment on August 5, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Founder and deposed prime minister Imran Khan emphasized the necessity of maintaining good relations with the military. He described it as “foolish” not to strengthen these ties given Pakistan’s strategic position and the military’s significant role in the country’s private sector.

Mr. Khan highlighted that while he holds no personal grievances against the United States, he believes the US played a role in his ousting through a no-confidence vote in 2022. He clarified that his criticisms have been directed at specific military leaders rather than the institution as a whole.

“Given Pakistan’s strategic position and the significant role of the military, promoting better relations is not just wise but necessary,” Khan stated. He added, “Misjudgments by military leadership should not be held against the institution.”

In the midst of heightened political tension, Khan proposed “conditional negotiations” with the military, contingent on the conduction of transparent elections and the withdrawal of what he described as “bogus” cases against his party members. He did not specify the terms of potential discussions with the military but reiterated his openness to any dialogue that could help alleviate Pakistan’s current political and economic crises.

“Engaging with those who wield actual power is more productive than negotiating with a government we view as illegitimate,” he asserted. Khan’s remarks underscore his strategy of strengthening institutional relations to navigate the complex political landscape of Pakistan.