ISLAMABAD: Defense Minister Khawaja Asif defended military against allegations of involvement in Imran Khan’s arrest saying Army had “No role” in it.

Speaking to journalists outside Parliament, he said, “Imran Khan was not arrested by Rangers or military. Rangers only assisted police in carrying out arrest.”

He lambasted Imran Khan for “Hurling baseless accusations at Armed Forces”, which he maintained was in fact an effort to “Justify” May 9 attacks.“Imran Khan is now trying to explain organised attacks of military installations and trying to hunt for excuses for having instigated people [against Army],” Asif said.

He revealed that there had not been any discussion between allied parties of ruling coalition over imposition of ban on PTI. Notably, while several PML-N leaders have expressed their support for idea, PPP on different occasions has hinted its opposition to banning political party.

Nonetheless Asif said, “Immediate dialogue could be called should need arise”. “One cannot rule out ban on PTI,” he added.

In response to another question, he said that PML-N supremo Nawaz Sharif “Will certainly return to Pakistan”.

Published in The Daily National Courier, May, 31 2023

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