The recent order by the Pakistan Supreme Court to release former Prime Minister Imran Khan, labeling his arrest as “unlawful,” has dealt a significant blow to the government of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and the military establishment that supports it. Imran Khan was apprehended from the Islamabad High Court, where he had sought bail in multiple corruption cases, by the paramilitary Rangers, acting on an order from the National Accountability Bureau (NAB), the country’s anti-corruption watchdog.
This arrest occurred just a day after the military warned Imran Khan against making “baseless allegations” regarding a senior military figure’s involvement in an attempted attack on his life in November 2022. Since being ousted from power in April 2022, Imran Khan has relentlessly campaigned against the 13-party coalition government led by Shehbaz Sharif. He has called for early parliamentary elections, which are scheduled for October, and has organized massive rallies while also winning consecutive by-elections, demonstrating his growing popularity.
Conversely, the approval rating of the coalition government has plummeted amid mounting economic challenges, but Shehbaz Sharif has remained firm in his refusal to yield to Imran Khan’s demands. Imran Khan, a former cricketer-turned-politician who assumed power in 2018, initially enjoyed strong ties with the military for over three years. During his tenure, he targeted opposition politicians (who are now in government) and admitted that the military had supported him in overcoming political hurdles. However, their relationship soured over disagreements regarding key military appointments, leading Imran Khan to turn against the generals. The new government subsequently launched multiple cases against him, further deepening the political divide.
The military, which has historically staged coups and ruled Pakistan for a significant portion of its existence, continues to wield influence. One reason for this is that ruling parties in Pakistan often collaborate with the military to neutralize their political opponents. The coalition government made the same mistake, ultimately leading to the current crisis. While the allegations against Imran Khan should be investigated, the manner in which he was arrested—utilizing paramilitary forces—and the subsequent crackdown on his supporters across the country have raised numerous questions, prompting the Supreme Court’s intervention and the order for his release.
This unfolding crisis occurs at a time when Pakistan is grappling with one of its most severe economic downturns. Foreign reserves are dwindling, inflation soared to a record 35% in April (the highest in South Asia), and the Pakistani rupee continues to depreciate. Additionally, the country has witnessed an increase in terrorist attacks by Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), emboldened by the resurgence of the Taliban in neighboring Afghanistan.
In the face of these pressing challenges, Pakistan’s leaders should have prioritized addressing the critical economic and security issues. However, they have become consumed by internal strife, further weakening the country’s institutions and consolidating power in unelected centers. It is imperative for Pakistan’s leadership to set aside their differences and focus on the welfare of the nation, uniting to tackle the economic crisis, combat terrorism, and strengthen democratic institutions for the betterment of the Pakistani people.