Imran Khan’s Struggle: Life in a Death Cell and the Quest for Justice
Imran Khan’s Solitary Confinement: An Exposé with Mehdi Hasan
Mehdi: What is Life Behind Bars Like? Have You Been Subjected to Mistreatment? Torture?
Imran Khan:
Life behind bars is a stark contrast to freedom. I find myself confined in what is referred to as a death cell—a small, isolated space typically reserved for terrorists. The authorities are determined to cast me in this light. In solitary confinement, I am denied even the basic rights of a prisoner. They employ psychological tactics to break my spirit, but my heart, fortified by faith in Allah, remains strong.
Each day is a battle against isolation. I keep myself occupied and mentally sharp through exercise and reading. These activities are my lifelines. I follow a strict routine to maintain my physical and mental health. Here, it’s all about preparing and conditioning oneself for whatever may come next. The strength from my faith keeps me resilient, content, and focused. Despite the efforts to break me, my spirit remains unbroken.
Mehdi: Who Do You Blame for Your Current Imprisonment? Your Pakistani Political Rivals, the Pakistani Military, the United States? Or all of the above?
Imran Khan:
Over these past two years, I’ve had ample time to reflect, analyzing every move and its consequences. After 11 months in prison, I am certain that this ordeal was orchestrated solely by General Bajwa. I hold no one else responsible. He meticulously planned and executed this scheme, presenting himself as a deceitful figure, creating lies and false narratives to cause both national and international chaos—all to secure his extension.
General Bajwa utterly failed to grasp the detrimental impact of his actions on democracy and Pakistan. His actions have led to significant instability. He created a false narrative, manipulating the truth to serve his ambitions. This has not only hurt me but also our country’s democratic fabric. His actions have set a dangerous precedent, undermining the very principles of justice and fairness.
Mehdi: Do you Still Believe the Biden Administration was Involved in a Coup to Remove You from Office?
Imran Khan:
General Bajwa single-handedly spread stories to countries like the U.S., painting me as anti-American or uninterested in good relations with them. The narrative that our trip to Russia was made unilaterally without consultation is completely false. The trip was a collective decision made after extensive deliberations. Yet, he portrayed it as an anti-American initiative by Imran Khan alone.
His insatiable thirst for power rendered him unpredictable. God knows what other lies he disseminated to various countries. His actions caused rifts with key allies and destabilized our international relations. His personal vendetta overshadowed national interests, leading to unnecessary conflicts. This created a complex web of misunderstandings and false accusations, further isolating Pakistan on the global stage.
Mehdi: What Were You Thinking at the Time?
Imran Khan:
I have consistently fought for the rule of law in Pakistan. If justice were served equally, there would be no need for someone like me in politics. I have maintained good relations with most countries. General Bajwa’s poison may have had a short-term effect, but it will not last. Even after my government was toppled, I kept close ties with many leaders.
Most countries view our army as a stabilizing force in a volatile political landscape. When the chief of this one constant uses brute force and deceit, it becomes difficult for many countries to speak out. I don’t mind if no one speaks about my treatment, but the world should raise its voice for democracy and the 250 million people of Pakistan. Their mandate and their future are at stake, and it is crucial for the international community to understand this.
Mehdi: Do You Recognize the Current Government of Pakistan, or Do You Believe Your Party Actually Won the Recent Elections and is the Legitimate, or ‘real,’ Government of Pakistan?
Imran Khan:
This government lacks legitimacy. The PML-N barely won 17 seats in Parliament. The violence, torture, and pre-poll rigging were evident. After the elections, it took them nearly two days to alter the results. I urge you, Mehdi, and your channel to scrutinize Form 45. You will see the blatant rigging. They couldn’t even do it properly.
This is not just my perspective; ask any Pakistani, and they will tell you this government is not legitimate. My party’s victory was clear, despite their efforts to undermine our identity and leadership. The people of Pakistan know the truth, and they stand with us. Our struggle is for a fair and just system where every vote counts and every voice is heard.
Mehdi: Do You Have any Regrets?
Imran Khan:
My only regret is trusting General Bajwa. His actions have caused immense harm to our country and its democratic institutions. I should have been more cautious. However, my commitment to Pakistan remains unwavering. My supporters see me as a messianic figure because they believe in my vision for a just and prosperous Pakistan.
Mehdi: Do You Feel There is Something Special About You or Your Mission? Is this a Religious or Even Holy Mission for You?
Imran Khan:
No, Mehdi, I do not regret my actions. I am fulfilling my duty as a Pakistani and a Muslim. God has given me everything—from money to fame. It would be unjust to indulge solely in personal gain. If I am popular and people follow me, it is because they know I would never lie to them. They know no amount of money can buy or change me. They know I will never bow down and disappoint them.
I show them a life they deserve and can achieve if we adhere to our principles. I have highlighted our country’s potential and how other parties have exploited it for their personal gain. My connection with my people is strong, and together we will succeed. My mission is driven by a deep sense of duty and responsibility. I am here to serve my nation and its people, and I will continue to fight for their rights and their future.
Mehdi: Do You Think People Outside of Pakistan Care About What is Happening to You?
Imran Khan:
My message is simple: This is not just about Imran Khan. This is an attack on democracy and the right to self-determination of 250 million people. Silence has prevailed while men, women, and children have been killed, abducted, and tortured. Only one political party has been victimized in every conceivable way. Recently, my information secretary was attacked on the road with blades.
Platforms like X have been blocked in Pakistan for months. Mentioning my name on TV is prohibited. My main leaders are still not allowed to appear on national television. Every party in the country describes this election as the worst in our history. Elections are supposed to bring political stability by earning the people’s trust and mandate, but it achieved neither. This has only created more uncertainty and a greater trust deficit between the people and the establishment.
In conclusion, my struggle is not just personal. It is a fight for democracy, justice, and the future of Pakistan. The world needs to recognize the gravity of the situation and stand with us in our quest for a free and fair society. The people of Pakistan deserve better, and I will continue to fight for their rights and their future, no matter the cost.