Imran Khan Issues Conditional Apology Over May 9 Mayhem, Stresses Need for Strong Military Ties

Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Founder and former Prime Minister Imran Khan announced a conditional apology for the events of May 9 during a media address on Wednesday. Speaking after a hearing of the £190 million reference in Adiala Jail, Khan emphasized the necessity of a thorough investigation by releasing CCTV footage.

Khan stated that if the footage identifies any PTI members involved in the incidents, he will take strict action against them, including expulsion from the party and appropriate punishment. “The CCTV footages of May 9 should be brought first. I will expel them from the party and punish them,” he remarked.

Drawing a parallel with the 1971 Bangladesh conflict, Khan referred to the military’s role, implying that the military should prioritize the welfare of its citizens, as the army in Bangladesh supported its people by refusing to fire on them. On August 4, in an interview with British media outlet Reuters, Khan underscored the importance of maintaining good relations with the military, stating that it would be “foolish” not to. In a written response to questions at Adiala Jail, where he marked one year of his imprisonment on August 5, Khan reiterated his belief that strengthening ties with the military is essential.

He highlighted the significance of this relationship given Pakistan’s strategic position and the military’s significant role in the country’s private sector. The PTI founder also expressed no personal grievances against the United States, although he maintains that the US played a role in his ousting through a no-confidence vote in 2022.