New Delhi:Former Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan, who was arrested on Tuesday just when he was entering the Islamabad High Court for a hearing in one of dozens of cases pending since he was ousted from office last year, expressed fear for his life and grave concern over muzzling of democratic rights in Pakistan.
The pre-recorded Instagram video, which made his fears over the possibility of anything untoward for him obvious, has sent ripples across circles. “My fellow Pakistanis, when these words of mine reach you I will already be closed inside in an unlawful case. After this, you all should realise that fundamental rights, law and democracy have been buried," he said in an Instagram message.
In the video message, the former Pak PM is seen saying expressing fear for his life. “Maybe it is possible that I won’t get a chance to talk to you again. That’s why I want to talk about two-three things," he said.
He further added, “Pakistan’s public has known me for 50 years; I’ve been in the eyes of the public for 50 years, I have never gone against Pakistan’s Constitution and I’ve never broken the law. Since I’ve been in politics, I have always tried that [all] my struggle would be peaceful and within the ambits of the Constitution. What is being done today is not because I have broken any law but only for me to step back from the haqeeqi azaadi tehreek."
Imran alleged that he is subject to persecution so that he is forced to accept this corrupt cabal of crooks that have been imposed on his countrymen. "They want me to accept them. I appeal today to everyone that you all have to come out. Freedom is not given on a plate — you have to work hard and struggle for it," he signed off.