Defence Minister Khawaja Asif has accused Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan of attempting to turn the army into a “subsidiary” of his party. Speaking to the media on Thursday, Asif criticised PTI’s political conduct, alleging that the party prioritised personal gains over national interests. “The PTI founder wanted the army to become a subsidiary of his party,” Asif claimed. He added that PTI’s frustration has grown due to Pakistan’s recent successes, and the party is now “licking its wounds” and resorting to conspiracies. Asif also highlighted Pakistan’s strong diplomatic, military, and economic ties with the United Kingdom, describing the relationship as “exemplary.” He mentioned that Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Asim Munir is currently on an important visit to the UK to strengthen bilateral military cooperation. The defence minister pointed to the events of May 9 and November 26, alleging they were orchestrated for “nefarious purposes.” He condemned the attacks on national assets and the desecration of martyrs’ memorials, calling them undeniable realities. “PTI’s politics revolves around one individual; they have no concern for the country,” Asif stated. Asif credited the incumbent government for Pakistan’s economic improvements and claimed that PTI’s frustration stems from these achievements. “Alhamdulillah, the country is on the path to stability. All conspiracies against Pakistan will fail,” he asserted. The federal minister also accused PTI leaders of pursuing personal interests rather than engaging in genuine politics. “They are not serious people. They are doing this for personal gains,” he said. Asif contrasted PTI’s conduct with his own party’s approach, stating, “We faced political victimisation but never compromised national dignity.”
Imran Khan’s Defiant Stance
Meanwhile, PTI founder Imran Khan has reiterated his refusal to strike any deal with the government, regardless of the pressure. His sister, Aleema Khan, quoted him as saying this during a meeting at Adiala Jail on Tuesday. Aleema dismissed reports of PTI leaders avoiding meetings with Imran Khan, calling them fabrications by the government’s “media factory.” She also denied rumours of backchannel talks between PTI and the establishment, despite claims that Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur is playing a key role in such efforts. The military, however, has maintained its stance of staying out of political discussions. Army Chief General Asim Munir recently dismissed reports of receiving a letter from Imran Khan, stating that even if such a letter arrived, he would forward it to the prime minister rather than read it.
