In the context of Pakistan, Imran Khan, the cricketer-turned-politician who emerged with promises of change, justice, and anti-corruption reforms, has faced significant controversy in recent years. Despite popularity as the leader of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), his actions and statements in both domestic and international politics have frequently drawn criticism, with many accusing him of jeopardizing Pakistan’s interests.
These criticisms largely stem from his political strategies, foreign policy positions, and domestic decisions, which critics argue undermined Pakistan’s sovereignty, stability, and international relations.
His relationship with Pakistan’s military has been a source of controversy throughout his political career. Initially aligning himself with the military establishment, he later faced accusations that his political actions were undermining it. His frequent criticism of the military leadership, particularly during his tenure as Prime Minister (2018–2022), attracted attention. In several public speeches, he suggested the military was interfering in politics.
Critics argued such statements were dangerous, and could deepen divisions within the country’s power structure and weaken national unity. Furthermore, Khan’s refusal to support the military on certain national and international issues, such as relations with neighbouring countries, fueled perceptions he was pushing an anti-Pakistan agenda.
Khan’s time as PM was also saw increasing tension with Pakistan’s judiciary. His strained relationship with the judiciary became especially evident in cases involving his government or party members. Khan’s statements and actions, particularly when judicial decisions conflicted with his political interests, led many to accuse him of undermining the legal system. For example, Khan’s criticisms during politically sensitive cases were seen by many as an attack on judicial independence.
After his government was ousted in 2022 through a no-confidence motion, Khan accused the judiciary of complicity in his removal, calling the legal system “biased” and “unjust.” Critics viewed this rhetoric as an attempt to delegitimize the judiciary, fostering distrust in one of Pakistan’s vital democratic institutions. In their view, Khan’s attacks on the judiciary, combined with his populist rhetoric, posed a threat to the rule of law in Pakistan and endangered the country’s democratic principles.
Khan also faced significant criticism over his handling of Pakistan’s foreign relations. His policy on international relations, especially with the USA, India, and Afghanistan, was often regarded as controversial and inconsistent. Khan’s criticism of US policies, particularly regarding the Afghan conflict, led some to believe his anti-Western stance could alienate Pakistan from crucial international allies and donors. He consistently opposed US influence in Pakistan’s domestic affairs and military operations, accusing the USA of meddling in Pakistan’s politics and distorting the country’s interests. His repeated claims of US involvement in the removal of his government were perceived by critics as an irresponsible attempt to damage Pakistan’s relationship with a key global power, potentially threatening Pakistan’s geopolitical interests.
Additionally, Khan was accused of politicizing national institutions such as the police, bureaucracy, and even the military. Concerns grew under his leadership about the use of state machinery to settle political scores. Critics argued his approach was damaging to the integrity of these institutions and to state functioning as a whole. From manipulating government appointments to using law enforcement to suppress political opponents, these actions were seen as part of a broader strategy to consolidate power at the expense of democratic principles.
The economic and trade performance demonstrates that investors have strong confidence in the initiatives taken by the government and the COAS to improve the economy and create a favorable environment for growth. The Diaspora remains loyal and patriotic, fully rejecting this harmful call for civil disobedience. The people of Pakistan stand united against those who seek to undermine the nation for personal political gain.
One of the most damaging instances of this politicization was his alleged role in undermining the neutrality of Pakistan’s Election Commission. Khan’s accusations of election rigging by opposition parties and claims that his political rivals were sabotaging the democratic process, despite lacking evidence, contributed to the perception the was a leader willing to weaken democratic institutions for personal gain.
These tactics led many to believe that Khan’s government was trying to manipulate the democratic process to ensure his own political survival. After his removal in 2022, he began promoting the notion that his ousting was the result of a “foreign conspiracy” led by the USA, with the backing of Pakistan’s military and opposition parties. He claimed his independent foreign policy, particularly his positions on Afghanistan and US influence in the region, had provoked this alleged plot. His vocal accusations against the USA and the military, coupled with his assertions of widespread foreign interference, were perceived by many as attempts to deflect responsibility from his administration’s shortcomings. Critics argued such rhetoric could damage Pakistan’s relations with Western nations and exacerbate diplomatic tensions unnecessarily . The anti-Western narrative was seen as a dangerous diversion from more urgent domestic concerns.
During Khan’s tenure, Pakistan faced significant economic challenges, including high inflation, escalating debt, and depleting foreign reserves. Critics argued his government’s economic policies, particularly regarding inflation management and external debt, were ineffective. His failure to adequately address these issues distanced Pakistan from international financial institutions, leading to credit downgrades and strained economic relations. Khan’s economic mismanagement further weakened the country’s financial position, making it more vulnerable to external pressures from international creditors.
A central issue throughout Khan’s tenure was his tendency to prioritize personal interests over the state’s welfare. Examples such as the 2014 Dharna, the Cypher drama, his letter to the IMF, and the events of May 9 and November 24-26, illustrate how his personal gains often took precedence over national concerns. Recently, Khan reignited controversy by urging overseas Pakistanis to withhold remittances to Pakistan, further fueling debate about the potential impact on the country’s economy, foreign relations, and political climate. This move, aimed at pressuring the current government, has raised concerns about its long-term effects and whether it will achieve its intended objectives.
Remittances, long a crucial source of foreign exchange, play a vital role in stabilizing the economy, especially during times of crisis. In 2023, remittances were approximately $30 billion, making them one of the country’s largest forex sources.
These funds are not only crucial for Pakistan’s foreign reserves but also provide essential support for millions of families across the nation. For many Pakistanis abroad, sending money back home is a means of supporting loved ones, making Khan’s call to withhold remittances potentially damaging for both the economy and national unity. These remittances are crucial for the survival of millions, and any significant reduction could result in severe hardship.
Imran framed this request as a strategy to exert economic pressure on the current government.
However, critics argue that this move could backfire, both economically and politically. While it may cause temporary discomfort for the government, it could have severe consequences for ordinary citizens who depend on remittances. Moreover, withholding remittances could damage the relationship between the Pakistani diaspora and the home country, potentially alienating a crucial constituency that has long supported him, both politically and financially. The fallout could deepen political divisions, further polarizing the nation and making it even harder to find common ground on the country’s challenges.
Khan’s call could also strain Pakistan’s relations with countries where millions of Pakistanis work, such as the Gulf States, the UK, the US, and Canada. Encouraging workers to stop sending money home may be perceived by these nations as politically motivated or destabilizing. Although remittances are primarily private transactions, the political undertone of this request could lead to diplomatic tensions.
Economically, a reduction in remittances would worsen Pakistan’s already precarious situation. The country is struggling with a significant trade deficit, foreign debt obligations, and soaring inflation. A decrease in remittances would likely worsen currency depreciation and further deplete forex reserves, potentially leading to more austerity measures, higher taxes, and cuts in public spending. During negotiations with the IMF and other international financial institutions, a reduction in remittances could complicate Pakistan’s financial obligations.
His call reflects a disregard for the nation’s well-being, and his actions seem self-serving rather than in the national interest. The Pakistani people and diaspora have consistently demonstrated their loyalty and patriotism, prioritizing the country’s interests over those of any political leader. The Pakistani diaspora, in particular, has distanced itself from this call for civil disobedience. This sentiment is reflected in the 31 percent increase in remittances in 2024. From January to November, overseas Pakistanis sent $21.5 billion, Saudi Arabia contributing the largest share at $7.29 billion, a 38.7 percent increase from last year. Pakistanis in the UAE sent $6.15 billion, up 55 percent from last year, while those in the UK sent $4.71 billion. Overseas Pakistanis sent $3.61 billion from the EU and $3.44 billion from the USA. Apart from Saudi Arabia and the UAE, other Gulf countries contributed $3.17 billion in remittances, while Australia and Malaysia also emerged as key destinations.
Despite the malicious efforts of our enemies and some anti-state elements, Pakistan’s economy is continuing to improve. The Pakistan Stock Exchange surged significantly on the last trading day of 2024, with the 100 index up over 3,900 points. 1.05 billion shares were traded, valued at Rs 40.88 billion, while the market capitalization rose by Rs 432 billion to reach Rs 14,558 billion. 815 million shares were traded worth Rs 32.9 billion. Market capitalization saw an increase of Rs 112 billion, settling at Rs 14,126 billion.
The economic and trade performance demonstrates that investors have strong confidence in the initiatives taken by the government and the COAS to improve the economy and create a favorable environment for growth. The Diaspora remains loyal and patriotic, fully rejecting this harmful call for civil disobedience. The people of Pakistan stand united against those who seek to undermine the nation for personal political gain.
