Islamabad | May 25, 2025
Former Prime Minister of Pakistan, Imran Khan, has once again stirred political discourse by declaring that engaging in dialogue with the current Pakistani government is futile, referring to it as a "puppet regime" controlled by the military. Khan, who leads the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party, asserted that meaningful negotiations can only take place directly with the military, which he claims holds the real power in the country.
Speaking to reporters from Adiala Jail, where he remains imprisoned on various charges, Khan emphasized the need for political reconciliation and national stability but dismissed the current civilian administration as irrelevant.
“In Pakistan, everyone knows where the real decisions are made. Talking to a powerless government is a waste of time. If a solution is to be found, it must involve those who hold actual authority — the military,” Khan said, highlighting what he views as a mockery of democratic governance in the country.
Khan also criticized the lack of constitutional rule, alleging that Pakistan is under "undeclared martial law," with basic rights suspended and opposition leaders targeted. He reaffirmed that his party is ready for a national dialogue, but only if the conversation includes the establishment, particularly the army.
The statement has intensified the ongoing civil-military tensions in Pakistan, with PTI leaders accusing the military of orchestrating political crackdowns, especially after the May 9 riots last year that led to mass arrests of PTI supporters.
While the government has yet to formally respond, political analysts suggest Khan’s remarks underline the deep-rooted imbalance in Pakistan's power structure — a reality many have long acknowledged but few have stated so openly.
