Faisal Vawda claims Faiz Hameed provided evidence of Imran Khan's involvement in May 9 riots

Former minister says that Imran admitted to marching towards GHQ, linking Khan to chaos that ensued on May 9

ISLAMABAD:

Senator Faisal Vawda has accused PTI supremo Imran Khan of being responsible for Pakistan's current political instability, citing evidence provided by former director general Inter-Services Intelligence Lt Gen (retd) Faiz Hameed, linking Khan to the May 9 vandalism incident.

"I cannot champion law and democracy when multiple cases are pending against me in courts. Some time ago, I revealed that Imran Khan's close associate, Faiz Hameed, provided evidence of Khan's involvement in the May 9 vandalism," stated Vawda during an interview with a private TV channel.

Vawda further stated that Imran admitted to directing his supporters to march towards GHQ. He pointed out that parties like PML-N, PPP, JUI-F, and MQM-P had also clashed with the establishment in the past but eventually sat down for negotiations.

When questioned if Faiz Hameed had advised the protest at GHQ on May 9, Vawda clarified, "This was not Faiz Hameed's suggestion; however, Imran Khan was part of the entire scheme."

Vawda expressed that the government does not face threats from a technocrat government or martial law, but rather from the ongoing power struggle within the PML-N. He added that the IMF had reached a deal with the finance minister, but the decision regarding reserved seats would not be implemented.

In an interview with a private TV channel, Vawda questioned the origin of discussions about a constitutional breakdown. "It would be better if ministers admitted their incompetence; the nation would respect them more. PML-N should resolve its internal conflicts and not drag the country into political instability," he said.

Vawda highlighted positive economic indicators, noting that the interest rate had decreased, implying reduced inflation. He suggested renegotiating electricity agreements with IPPs, stating, "These political parties were responsible for the agreements that ensure payments to IPPs regardless of power supply. Such contracts involve kickbacks. The decision on reserved seats will not be implemented, with the Election Commission, Parliament, Speaker of the National Assembly, and President standing in the way."

He emphasized that constitutional amendments are the responsibility of Parliament while interpreting the Constitution falls to the Supreme Court.

Vawda stressed the need to dispel the notion of judicial martial law. "The establishment's stance on May 9 is clear. Regardless of future army chiefs, the military will remain focused on its battles. There are good people in political parties who should be allowed to come forward," he remarked.

He concluded by stating that 90% of his predictions had proven accurate and anticipated political upheaval in September and October, but the government was not under threat. Vawda concluded the PTI did not require a forward bloc urgently, but one would be formed selectively.