The political landscape in Pakistan has experienced turbulence and transformation recently. At the center of this storm lies the infamous “London Plan.” According to this plan, Former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif aimed to diminish Imran Khan’s influence. However, his calculations fell short, leading to unforeseen consequences.
Misjudging Imran Khan’s Public Support
When Imran Khan was ousted on April 9th and 10th, 2022, Nawaz Sharif expected a lack of public support for Khan. Sharif assumed that Khan would fade into obscurity. In stark contrast, the public rallied behind Khan, demonstrating overwhelming support. This miscalculation marked the beginning of a series of errors in Sharif’s strategy.
Imran Khan’s Resilience and Public Engagement
Despite expectations, Imran Khan did not retreat. Instead, he organized nearly 60 public gatherings in the following months. He communicated his narrative directly to the people of Pakistan. Shahbaz Sharif, struggling with hyperinflation, failed to deliver on promises. The public grew increasingly frustrated with escalating prices and economic instability.
The Establishment’s Role and Legal Battles
Nawaz Sharif made a deal with the establishment to marginalize Imran Khan. Consequently, multiple false cases were lodged against Khan, leading to his arrest. Rather than diminishing his popularity, these actions garnered more sympathy for Khan. Each move backfired, solidifying Khan’s status as a resilient leader.
Refusing Deals and Standing Firm
Nawaz Sharif believed imprisoning Khan would force him to seek a deal. However, Khan refused to compromise on his principles. Offers to go abroad or remain silent were rejected. Imran Khan’s refusal to bow under pressure only increased his standing among his supporters.
May 9th, 2023 Incident and Its Aftermath
The planners orchestrated the May 9th, 2023 incident to discredit Imran Khan and PTI. This led to mass arrests and forced separations within the party. Leaders and workers faced severe brutality and torture. Despite these efforts, social media warriors helped counteract the confusion and spread the truth.
Judicial Interference and Suppression
Nawaz Sharif demanded extreme measures, including stripping PTI of its election symbol. The judiciary, under Chief Justice Qazi Faiz Esa, passed judgments against PTI. The aim was to confuse Khan’s voters, but social media prevented these tactics from succeeding.
Character Assassination Attempts
To tarnish Khan’s reputation, the establishment fabricated cases like the Eddat case and Terrion White case. Courts had previously deemed these cases non-maintainable. Yet, the establishment pressed on, attempting to weaken Khan’s image.
Media Blackout and Imran Khan’s Resolve
Nawaz Sharif sought to ban Imran Khan’s name and image from media platforms. The goal was to erase Khan from public memory. However, these efforts only highlighted Sharif’s desperation. Imran Khan’s determination to remain in Pakistan and fight for democracy persisted.
The Threat to Imran Khan’s Life
There are fears that Nawaz Sharif’s hostility towards Khan could escalate. The possibility of an attempt on Khan’s life through poisoning is a concern. Such an act would be disastrous for Pakistan. The planners must reconsider their approach for the sake of democracy and national prosperity.
The Future of Pakistan’s Democracy
The establishment’s meddling in politics has long-lasting impacts. The nation suffers economic and geopolitical crises due to their involvement. For Pakistan to thrive, these planners must step back from politics. The public’s choice should reflect in democratic processes without interference.
Conclusion
Nawaz Sharif’s London Plan miscalculated on many levels. He underestimated Imran Khan’s resilience and the Pakistani people’s loyalty. This era, driven by social media and political awareness, requires transparency and integrity. The planners’ attempts to undermine democracy only strengthen the resolve of true leaders. Pakistan’s future depends on respecting the democratic will and learning from past mistakes.