Former Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan continues to challenge the government from prison, escalating his political struggle with a call for a nationwide civil disobedience movement. This follows the recent crackdown on his party, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), and its supporters during protests in Islamabad.
Khan announced a five-member team to negotiate with the government. Their demands include the release of under-trial PTI prisoners and a judicial investigation into the protests of May 9, 2023, and November 26, 2024.
If these demands are not met by December 14, Khan vows to launch a civil disobedience campaign. Plans include urging overseas Pakistanis to reduce remittances and initiating a boycott campaign, potentially targeting Pakistan’s economic stability.
Background and Context
The November 26 protests led by Khan’s wife, Bushra Bibi, ended abruptly after a severe crackdown by security forces. The government accused PTI supporters of causing the deaths of four security personnel, while PTI claims at least 12 party members were killed, 10 of them by gunfire.
ALSO READ: Police-PTI Faceoff: Why is Pakistan on the boil?
Khan faces multiple charges, including “terrorism” linked to protests and an attack on military headquarters in May 2023. His imprisonment since August 2023 has been marked by allegations of harsh conditions.
Pakistan’s economy is heavily reliant on remittances, with overseas Pakistanis contributing nearly $30 billion annually. A slowdown in remittances, as called for by Khan, could significantly strain the country’s economic framework.
Political Strategy and Challenges
Political analysts suggest that Khan’s call for civil disobedience reflects an attempt to recover from the setbacks of his recent “final call” protests. Historically, his 2014 civil disobedience campaign ended without significant gains, raising questions about the effectiveness of this strategy.
Analysts argue that Khan’s political future depends on navigating his fraught relationship with the military, particularly Army Chief General Asim Munir. Munir’s opposition to Khan complicates any potential for a negotiated settlement.
Khan’s tactics aim to pressure the government and military, keeping PTI’s agenda in the spotlight both domestically and internationally. However, they risk exacerbating Pakistan’s political and economic instability.
The civil disobedience campaign may draw attention to Khan’s demands, but its success hinges on sustained public support and the ability to withstand government retaliation.
Imran Khan’s latest move underscores his resolve to remain a central figure in Pakistan’s turbulent political landscape, despite facing significant legal and institutional obstacles.
