Imran Khan’s 10-12 year political “project” backed by Faiz Hameed: Khawaja Asif

WEB DESK: Defence Minister Khawaja Asif has said that for the first time in Pakistan’s history, the army has handed down punishment to one of its own senior officers, referring to former ISI chief Lt Gen (retd) Faiz Hameed, and warned that further legal action will follow over additional allegations.

Speaking to the media, Asif said more cases, including those linked to the events of May 9, would be pursued against Faiz Hameed. He alleged that a political “project” involving the founder of the Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI), Imran Khan had been launched 10 to 12 years ago and that Faiz Hameed played a central role in bringing him to power.

The defence minister claimed that Nawaz Sharif was removed from office through a conspiracy and on what he described as fabricated charges, adding that the circumstances of the 2018 general elections were well known. He alleged that Faiz Hameed and Imran Khan worked in tandem, calling them “partners” whose actions caused serious damage to the country.

Asif further alleged that the PTI government jailed political opponents during its four-year tenure and said the “mindset” behind the violence of May 9 could be traced back to Faiz Hameed. He claimed that even now, “conspiratorial elements” were attempting to return the PTI founder to power.

The minister said Pakistan’s enemies would face strict accountability and those who risk the country for personal power would not be spared. He also remarked that while Faiz Hameed has the right to appeal, Nawaz Sharif was not afforded similar relief in the past.

Turning to security issues, Asif accused PTI leaders of paying extortion to the Taliban and alleged that developments along the western border were being influenced by India. He praised the current military leadership, saying Pakistan had earned unprecedented respect globally, including recognition in the United States.

He added that Pakistan “made history” in May this year and said accountability would extend to all those involved in wrongdoing. Asif also claimed he was once pressured to speak against Nawaz Sharif or face imprisonment, concluding that the country was now being stabilised under what he described as a “hybrid system” involving cooperation between the government and the military.