The Downfall of Imran Khan: Political Turmoil and Military Rift

hamza assi

Explore the critical events that led to the ousting of Imran Khan as Pakistan’s prime minister. This video reveals the growing tension between Khan and Pakistan’s powerful military, the missteps that weakened his government, and how the military’s neutrality sealed his fate.

Transcript

00:00Imran Khan, a former national cricket hero, was elected as Pakistan's Prime Minister in 2018,

00:06appearing poised to break the cycle of short-lived tenures.

00:09His rise was largely credited to his charismatic leadership and an anti-corruption platform,

00:14but it was also widely believed he had the backing of the military.

00:18Over time, however, his relationship with the military deteriorated,

00:22leading to his ousting in a no-confidence vote in Parliament.

00:26Khan initially had significant public support, but his government faced criticism for being a

00:30hybrid regime, heavily influenced by the military.

00:34Media censorship and coercion of political opponents helped secure his election victory.

00:39His main political rival, Nawaz Sharif, was disqualified due to corruption charges,

00:44although some suspected this was more about his clash with the military.

00:48Khan's policies included expanding social welfare programs,

00:52but his government struggled with economic challenges,

00:54including rising inflation and a weakening currency.

00:58His decision to retain Usman Buzdar as Punjab's Chief Minister despite widespread

01:02criticism fuelled rumours of undue influence from his wife, who is seen as a spiritual guide.

01:08The turning point came when Khan resisted military leadership changes,

01:12specifically refusing to replace Lieutenant General Faiz Hamid, whom he saw as an ally.

01:17This rift weakened his standing with the military, and when the opposition moved to oust him,

01:21the military stayed neutral, sealing his fate.

01:25Khan has framed his removal as a US-led conspiracy due to his foreign policy stances,

01:30particularly his reluctance to condemn Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

01:36Despite these claims being largely dismissed by analysts, they have resonated with his supporters,

01:41tapping into anti-American sentiment in Pakistan.

01:45Khan remains a significant figure in opposition, maintaining that he will continue the fight.

01:51For more UN videos visit www.un.org

Category

Transcript

Be the first to comment

Recommended