Imran Khan: Imran Khan’s sisters have expressed their grave concerns for his safety following the recent reports of civil unrest, powerful institutional pressures and political rumours surrounding him. They express an increasing fear that the cycle of violence may be continuing and that Khan could potentially be another tragic victim of history in a country where history is often a cycle of political violence and tragedy for leaders.
The family of Khan believes that he has been denied basic rights, medical treatment and due process; all of which have been echoed in a country where the powerful have often succumbed to the wrath of history and political turmoil.
An Unfortunate History Written in Blood and Power
Khan’s family’s fears are valid given Pakistan’s long record of violence against political leaders.
An Assassinated Leader: Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto
Former prime minister Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto was executed in 1979 following a highly publicised but controversial trial that many believe was conducted with the knowledge and input of the military establishment. His death was ultimately associated with the idea that in Pakistan, political competition can lead to extreme violence.
An Assassinated Leader: Benazir Bhutto
Many years later, another prominent political figure, Benazir Bhutto, was assassinated while campaigning. To this day, her assassination remains officially unsolved; however, many believe that she fell victim to institutional lapses that allowed her to be murdered. The stories of both Bhuttos are reminders of what can happen when a leader challenges the institutional status quo.
Why Does Asim Munir’s Military Get So Much Attention?
The political-army relationship in Pakistan is getting rough under the command of Army Chief General Asim Munir. Critics say the Army has more power now than it ever has before, with crackdowns, censorship, and using the law against opposition leaders—especially Imran Khan.
