Khawaja Asif Alleges Imran Khan Colluded with Ex-ISI Chief Faiz Hamid

SIALKOT: Defence Minister Khawaja Asif has accused former Prime Minister and PTI founder Imran Khan of colluding with now-convicted ex-ISI chief Faiz Hamid to manipulate political power in Pakistan. Speaking at a press conference on Saturday, Asif claimed that conspiratorial elements are still trying to facilitate Imran Khan’s return to power.

Asif said that during PTI’s tenure, political victimization was carried out through Faiz Hamid, who allegedly threatened Imran’s political rivals. “Faiz played a dangerous game with the country, benefiting both himself and Imran,” he asserted, calling the ex-spymaster “in charge of the PTI project.” According to the minister, Imran Khan came to power through “manipulation and threats” orchestrated by Hamid, who also imprisoned Nawaz Sharif and jailed PML-N workers.

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The defence minister blamed Imran and Hamid for the May 9 unrest, describing it as part of a “larger pattern of conspiracies.” He claimed that the planning and strategy for the violence came from Hamid, while manpower came from PTI supporters. Military installations and memorials were desecrated during the unrest, but the army later restored order through Operation Bunyanum Marsoos, boosting the country’s standing.

Asif highlighted that Hamid’s conviction followed a 15-month trial by the Field General Court Martial (FGCM) on four counts: engaging in political activities, violating the Official Secrets Act, misuse of authority and resources, and causing wrongful loss to individuals. He stressed that accountability would also extend to hidden facilitators within the bureaucracy and other institutions who supported these actions.

The defence minister warned that continued alliances between such elements could have caused further damage to Pakistan and emphasized the need to hold them accountable.