Pakistan government to ban Imran Khan's PTI for 'anti-state activities'

The Pakistan government has announced to ban Imran Khan's PTI party, citing its involvement in anti-state activities. The government also said it will file a sedition case against Khan and two other members of the party.

Making the announcement, Information Minister Attaullah Tarar cited substantial evidence, including the foreign funding case, the May 9 riots, and the cipher case, among others to justify its move.

"In view of the foreign funding case, May 9 riots, and the cipher episode as well as the resolution passed in the U.S., we believe that there is very credible evidence present to have Khan’s party, the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) banned,” Information Minister Attaullah Tarar made the surprising announcement at a press conference.

Tarar said the government would move the apex court to file a petition to seek a ban on the party.

“Our patience and tolerance are considered as our weaknesses. The PTI and Pakistan cannot co-exist as the government is trying to stabilise the country politically and economically, while efforts are being made to thwart its efforts,” Mr. Tarar said and added that the federal government would move the apex court to file a petition to ban the party.

Meanwhile, PTI responded on social media, urging the government to avoid destabilising the country, and rebuked Chief of Army Staff General Asim Munir.

The 71-year-old politician has been lodged at the Adiala Jail in Rawalpindi on account of multiple cases against him since his ouster as prime minister in April 2022.

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