Imran Khan Blames Pakistan Army Chief Munir for Jail Ordeal, Warns of Mass Protests

Incarcerated former Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan on Wednesday launched a blistering attack from behind bars, squarely blaming Army Chief General Asim Munir for what he described as deteriorating conditions and threats to his life while in custody.

Image Source: Iman on X

In a statement shared via X, the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leader held Munir “personally responsible” if any harm were to come to him during his imprisonment. 

The 72-year-old also alleged that both he and his wife, Bushra Bibi, were facing harsh and degrading treatment, including solitary confinement, restrictions on communication, and the removal of basic amenities.

Khan accused a jail superintendent and an army colonel of carrying out retaliatory actions on direct orders from Munir. 

“Even terrorists are being treated better,” he said, adding that a convicted military officer was allegedly enjoying “VIP protocol” behind bars while he faced "relentless abuse."

The former PM reignited old tensions, claiming that Munir’s actions were driven by a long-standing personal vendetta stemming from his removal as ISI chief during Khan’s premiership. 

He alleged that a message once sent via PTI leader Zulfi Bukhari to Bushra Bibi — which she rejected — led to her continued harassment as a form of psychological pressure against him.

Khan further accused Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz and Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi of turning the province into a “police state” under what he termed “fascist” rule.

With the PTI preparing for a nationwide protest campaign set to begin August 5, Khan issued a call for party unity and renewed resistance. 

He urged supporters to amplify his message online and take to the streets peacefully, insisting he would rather stay in jail for life than bow to what he called a “tyrannical regime.”

The warning was echoed by Khan’s sister, Aleema Khan, who told reporters that he had made it clear: if any harm came to him, General Munir should be held accountable.

The political climate in Pakistan remains charged, with Khan’s fiery message set to further intensify the standoff between the PTI and the country’s military establishment.