Pakistan Defense Minister Khawaja Asif has categorically denied Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) allegations that the government offered to transfer former Prime Minister Imran Khan from Adiala Prison to Bani Gala or to place him under house arrest.
Speaking at an event in Sialkot on Saturday, Asif dismissed the claims as baseless. “No such proposal has been made and there is no pressure for his release,” he said.
Asif clarified that the government is not involved in decisions regarding Khan’s detention or resettlement, stressing that such matters fall solely within judicial jurisdiction.
The minister also accused the PTI of fabricating narratives for political purposes. “These allegations are completely baseless and part of PTI’s continued attempts to mislead the public,” he said.
He added: “Imran Khan’s future will be decided by the courts, not the government. I have no connection with the judiciary and I am certainly not a soothsayer to predict the outcome of the courts. »
Asif criticized the PTI for its alleged attempts to destabilize the country, saying “all its efforts to harm Pakistan have failed.” He expressed the government’s determination to maintain political stability and guarantee the rule of law.
The defense minister’s remarks follow a statement by Imran Khan’s sister, Aleema Khan, who claimed earlier this week that authorities had offered the former prime minister a deal to transfer him from prison. ‘Adiala in Rawalpindi towards his residence in Banigala.
According to Aleema, the offers were made through Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur. She alleged that her brother was repeatedly asked to remain silent in exchange for his transfer, but she questioned how he could agree to be placed under house arrest after serving a prison sentence.
However, the government and the PTI have rejected such offers.
Resumption of PIA EU flights
Meanwhile, speaking about the resumption of Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) flights to Paris after a four-year suspension, the Federal Defense Minister attributed the achievement to the collective efforts and prayers of overseas Pakistanis.
“PIA flights to France are just the beginning,” Asif said, revealing plans to expand its flight operations to the UK, North America and 19 cities in Europe. He highlighted the government’s commitment to improving connectivity for overseas Pakistanis, who contribute significantly to the country’s economy.
Asif’s remarks come as the government continues to face challenges on several fronts, including political tensions with the PTI and the need to restore the country’s economic and social stability.
