Imran Khan's Party Denounces 'Absurd' Terrorism Ruling

A Pakistani anti-terrorism court labeled former PM Imran Khan's actions as 'terrorist' in a case linked to May 2023 violence. Khan, tried under the Official Secrets Act, allegedly instigated attacks on military sites. His party, PTI, condemns the ruling and vows to protest, citing lack of evidence and political motives.

An anti-terrorism court in Pakistan has accused jailed former Prime Minister Imran Khan of actions akin to a 'terrorist' in a case related to the May 9 violence. The court ruled that Khan delegated the task of attacking military installations, government properties, and police officials to party leaders to exert pressure for his release.

Khan, the 71-year-old founder of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), and hundreds of his party members are being tried in multiple cases, including one under the Official Secrets Act. The charges stem from violent protests on May 9, 2023, after Khan's arrest in an alleged corruption case, during which key military installations were significantly damaged by his supporters.

PTI workers vandalized military sites, including the Jinnah House, Mianwali Airbase, and the ISI building in Faisalabad. The Army headquarters in Rawalpindi also faced unprecedented attacks. PTI has criticized the anti-terrorism court’s ruling as an “absurd order” and plans to challenge the verdict, rallying in support of Khan and other detained party members.