Former Prime Minister Imran Khan’s recent letter to President Arif Alvi, urging an inquiry against former Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General (retd) Qamar Javed Bajwa, has sparked a debate across Pakistan. In the letter, Khan highlights alleged violations of oath and the Constitution by Bajwa during his tenure as COAS, raising critical concerns about the integrity of Pakistan’s democratic institutions.
The letter, shared publicly on PTI’s official social media channels, presents compelling arguments backed by evidence and credible sources. Khan draws attention to a column published in a newspaper that revealed startling revelations attributed to General Bajwa regarding his views on the elected government and its leadership. Khan questions the legitimacy of Bajwa’s actions in undermining the democratic process, emphasizing that only the people, through elections, have the right to decide the country’s leadership.
One of the key issues raised by Khan is Bajwa’s alleged interference in judicial matters, particularly the dismissal of corruption cases against individuals like Shaukat Tarin. By claiming to have influenced the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) and dismissing legal cases, Bajwa is accused of overstepping his constitutional mandate and encroaching upon civilian institutions’ autonomy.
Furthermore, Khan highlights Bajwa’s purported recording of confidential conversations, which he views as a serious violation of fundamental human rights and an abuse of power. The former prime minister questions the legality and authorization behind Bajwa’s actions, underscoring the need for transparency and accountability within the military hierarchy.
Another significant issue raised in Khan’s letter is Bajwa’s public divergence from the government’s policy of maintaining neutrality in the Russia-Ukraine conflict. By expressing his views at an international conference, Bajwa allegedly undermined the government’s stance, which was formulated through consensus among relevant stakeholders. Khan emphasizes the constitutional mandate of the Armed Forces and asserts President Alvi’s responsibility to ensure adherence to constitutional principles.
Imran Khan’s letter to President Arif Alvi represents a bold stance against alleged violations of the Constitution and oath of office by former Army Chief Bajwa. By urging an inquiry into these matters, Khan underscores the importance of upholding democratic norms, civilian supremacy, and constitutional integrity in Pakistan. It remains to be seen how the government responds to Khan’s call for accountability and transparency within the military establishment.
