Imran Khan likely to be released this year, predicts Nadeem Afzal Chan

ISLAMABAD: Nadeem Afzal Chan has predicted that Imran Khan is likely to be released this year, saying political leaders cannot remain imprisoned for a long period۔

The Pakistan Peoples Party leader said that the courts would ultimately play the decisive role in the matter.

“Imran Khan has been in prison for three years. Political leaders cannot be kept behind bars indefinitely,” Chan said, adding that as the political environment normalizes, the courts would also “become normal.”

He stated that Imran Khan would eventually have to engage with political parties, but insisted such engagement should not be termed a “deal.”

“No one calls the Charter of Democracy a deal,” he remarked.

Commenting on President Asif Ali Zardari, Chan said he was not the kind of politician who would resign under pressure.

“Why would he resign? Resignation is not an option,” he said, adding that Zardari performs politics more effectively under pressure.

The PPP spokesperson also claimed that constitutional amendments were behind much of the current political activity and alleged that institutions become active whenever amendments are discussed.

He further criticized the current administration, calling it “not a democratic but a bureaucratic government.”

Referring to law and order and governance issues in Punjab, Chan alleged that certain officers disappear and later return after making statements, while accountability remains absent.

He also warned about rising inflation, unemployment and the worsening condition of the agriculture sector, saying the current situation could eventually lead to a “major explosion” if issues remain unresolved.