Former Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan announced that his party's governments in Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa will dissolve their assemblies on December 23.

Pakistan political crisis: Imran Khan decides to dissolve assemblies

Former Pakistan prime minister Imran Khan announced on Saturday that the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party will dissolve its provincial assemblies next week in a bid to put pressure on the government to call early elections. Imran had urged the Shehbaz Sharif government to hold early elections but the Prime Minister has completely denied the request. With Pakistan going through extreme financial crisis due to natural disasters, the government has come under extreme pressure to organise polls.

"Next Friday (Dec. 23), we will dissolve the Punjab and Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa assemblies," Khan said while addressing a gathering of his supporters in the eastern city of Lahore, reported The Dawn.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/un-expresses-serious-concerns-despite-reinstatement-of-journalist-on-twitter-544011">Serious concerns despite restitution of journalists’ Twitter accounts, says UN</a>

The PTI currently controls two out of Pakistan’s four provincial assemblies and the decision to dissolve their positions has&nbsp;given rise to a legislative crisis. Local elections are generally held alongside the general elections but the government has not said when they will be conducted.

The general elections are stated to take place in November 2023. Sharif has said earlier that the government will not hold local elections before the stipulated time for the polls.

Punjab is the most populous province of Pakistan right now with a population of over 220 million and with the province in crisis, the political scene in the country is expected to get complicated soon. According to the constitution, the government needs to hold regional elections within 90 days of the legislators submitting their resignation and that puts Sharif in a tight situation.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-works-to-restore-power-as-vladimir-putin-meets-russian-military-officials-544001">Ukraine works overtime to restore power, Putin meets his military officials</a> 
&nbsp;

<h2>Gen Bajwa&nbsp;caused more harm than an enemy:&nbsp;Imran&nbsp;</h2>

Imran also criticised former army chief Gen (retd.) Qamar Javed Bajwa and said that he has caused more damage to Pakistan than an enemy ever could.

“What Gen Bajwa did to Pakistan even an enemy could not have done. When I was in power, Gen Bajwa would tell me to forget about the accountability of thieves (Sharifs and Zardaris). The world knows about that first NRO, National Reconciliation Ordinance (amnesty for past crimes) deal given to the PPP and PML-N by Gen Pervaiz Musharraf and the second by Gen Bajwa,” Khan said.

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Former Pakistan prime minister Imran Khan announced on Saturday that the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party will dissolve its provincial assemblies next week in a bid to put pressure on the government to call early elections.

Former Pakistan prime minister Imran Khan announced on Saturday that the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party will dissolve its provincial assemblies next week in a bid to put pressure on the government to call early elections. Imran had urged the Shehbaz Sharif government to hold early elections but the Prime Minister has completely denied the request. With Pakistan going through extreme financial crisis due to natural disasters, the government has come under extreme pressure to organise polls. "Next Friday (Dec. 23), we will dissolve the Punjab and Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa assemblies," Khan said while addressing a gathering of his supporters in the eastern city of Lahore, reported The Dawn. Also read | Serious concerns despite restitution of journalists’ Twitter accounts, says UN The PTI currently controls two out of Pakistan’s four provincial assemblies and the decision to dissolve their positions has given rise to a legislative crisis. Local elections are generally held alongside the general elections but the government has not said when they will be conducted. The general elections are stated to take place in November 2023. Sharif has said earlier that the government will not hold local elections before the stipulated time for the polls. Punjab is the most populous province of Pakistan right now with a population of over 220 million and with the province in crisis, the political scene in the country is expected to get complicated soon. According to the constitution, the government needs to hold regional elections within 90 days of the legislators submitting their resignation and that puts Sharif in a tight situation. Also read | Ukraine works overtime to restore power, Putin meets his military officials Gen Bajwa caused more harm than an enemy: Imran Imran also criticised former army chief Gen (retd.) Qamar Javed Bajwa and said that he has caused more damage to Pakistan than an enemy ever could. “What Gen Bajwa did to Pakistan even an enemy could not have done. When I was in power, Gen Bajwa would tell me to forget about the accountability of thieves (Sharifs and Zardaris). The world knows about that first NRO, National Reconciliation Ordinance (amnesty for past crimes) deal given to the PPP and PML-N by Gen Pervaiz Musharraf and the second by Gen Bajwa,” Khan said.

PTI will dissolve Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa assemblies on Dec 23: Imran Khan

Pakistan Political Crisis: Imran Khan blames former Army Chief for his ouster

Eight months since being removed from the office, Imran Khan continues to dominate news in Pakistan. In the latest, he has come under the scanner for his helicopter rides while in office. The expense details were presented in the Pakistani Senate.

Imran Khan and its 'sky-high' expenses: Former Pakistani PM's helicopter misused?

The Shehbaz Sharif-led government upped the ante on opposition leader Imran Khan by bringing up the helicopter expense details of the former prime minister during a session in the upper house, Senate.&nbsp;In a written reply, the Cabinet Division said that the former premiere’s expenses for his chopper rides from January 2019 to March 2022 amounted to over Rs 430 million.

It was also stated that the PTI chief completed a total of 1,579 VVIP mission hours on the copter in the said span of time.

The reply further pointed out that the former cricketer-turned-politician flew for 522 hours in helicopter in 2020, which cost the exchequer Rs 140 million. The following year 2021 saw Khan using 450 hours of VVIV flights, which resulted into bills over Rs120 million, reported Geo News.

The details about Khan’s helicopter expenses were revealed following a probe by the&nbsp;National Accountability Bureau (NAB) earlier this month on the illegal use of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) government’s helicopters. The KP region is governed by Khan’s Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf party.

It was revealed that those who used the chopper for private use owe Rs 90 million to the provincial administration.

The development came in reaction to the usage of choppers used by Khan, former and current provincial and federal ministers, including others.

The NAB had asked the KP government&nbsp;to recover the cost of all the illegal helicopter trips taken by "influential politicians, public officeholders" and others.

To tackle this, the KP government in November this year drafted a proposal to amend the laws regarding the use of its helicopter and other matters in the province.

Following the amendment, no one will be able to question the chopper's use, including who uses it and why is it being used.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The Shehbaz Sharif-led government upped the ante on opposition leader Imran Khan by bringing up the helicopter expense details of the former prime minister during a session in the upper house, Senate.

The Shehbaz Sharif-led government upped the ante on opposition leader Imran Khan by bringing up the helicopter expense details of the former prime minister during a session in the upper house, Senate. In a written reply, the Cabinet Division said that the former premiere’s expenses for his chopper rides from January 2019 to March 2022 amounted to over Rs 430 million. It was also stated that the PTI chief completed a total of 1,579 VVIP mission hours on the copter in the said span of time. The reply further pointed out that the former cricketer-turned-politician flew for 522 hours in helicopter in 2020, which cost the exchequer Rs 140 million. The following year 2021 saw Khan using 450 hours of VVIV flights, which resulted into bills over Rs120 million, reported Geo News. The details about Khan’s helicopter expenses were revealed following a probe by the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) earlier this month on the illegal use of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) government’s helicopters. The KP region is governed by Khan’s Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf party. It was revealed that those who used the chopper for private use owe Rs 90 million to the provincial administration. The development came in reaction to the usage of choppers used by Khan, former and current provincial and federal ministers, including others. The NAB had asked the KP government to recover the cost of all the illegal helicopter trips taken by "influential politicians, public officeholders" and others. To tackle this, the KP government in November this year drafted a proposal to amend the laws regarding the use of its helicopter and other matters in the province. Following the amendment, no one will be able to question the chopper's use, including who uses it and why is it being used. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Imran Khan’s copter rides cost Rs 430 million to exchequer, says Pakistan govt reeling under debt

Johnson earned over £1mn giving speeches. Take a look at famous leaders, and their earnings in office, after

Imran Khan is not giving up. He continues to call for elections, take on the Sharif govt and pot shots at former Pak Army Chief General Bajwa. And if he did not already have a lot on hand, Khan now faces a challenge from his own party. @MaroWardak gets you a report on this week's #SouthAsiaDiary

South Asia Diary | Can Imran hold onto his party's reins?

Former Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan has issued a deadline for the current government to hold fresh elections. Imran said on Monday that if the Shehbaz Sharif-led government does not announce early elections, his party – Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf – will dissolve two regional legislative assemblies.&nbsp;

This is the latest move by Imran who had earlier urged the government to hold meetings with the opposition regarding a possible early election. If the PTI dissolves the local governments, it will force the Election Commission to hold local elections in those two regions – something that happens alongside the general elections. Officially, the tenure of Sharif’s government will end in August 2023.&nbsp;

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“They’re delaying elections just because they are fearful of defeat. We’ll win whenever they’re held," Imran Khan had said earlier during a public address according to The Dawn.&nbsp;

PTI leader Fawad Chaudhry took to Twitter to share the deadline set by his party.&nbsp;

While the opposition parties have been calling for early elections, the Pakistan government has not paid any attention to their demands. Sharif has maintained that elections will not be held ahead of time.&nbsp;

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Meanwhile, Sharif has issued a statement on Twitter regarding the rocket fire from Taliban forces on a border crossing with Pakistan that led to the death of six civilians. In the Twitter post, the Pakistan PM demanded that “the Afghan Interim government should ensure that such incidents are not repeated."&nbsp;

"Pakistan has also approached Afghan authorities at Kabul to highlight (the) severity of the situation and demanded strict action to obviate any such recurrence of the incident in future," the Pakistan military said.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Former Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan has issued a deadline for the current government to hold fresh elections. Imran said on Monday that if the Shehbaz Sharif-led government does not announce early elections, his party – Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf – will dissolve two regional legislative assemblies.

Former Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan has issued a deadline for the current government to hold fresh elections. Imran said on Monday that if the Shehbaz Sharif-led government does not announce early elections, his party – Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf – will dissolve two regional legislative assemblies. This is the latest move by Imran who had earlier urged the government to hold meetings with the opposition regarding a possible early election. If the PTI dissolves the local governments, it will force the Election Commission to hold local elections in those two regions – something that happens alongside the general elections. Officially, the tenure of Sharif’s government will end in August 2023. Also read | Iran executes second protester in less than a week “They’re delaying elections just because they are fearful of defeat. We’ll win whenever they’re held," Imran Khan had said earlier during a public address according to The Dawn. PTI leader Fawad Chaudhry took to Twitter to share the deadline set by his party. While the opposition parties have been calling for early elections, the Pakistan government has not paid any attention to their demands. Sharif has maintained that elections will not be held ahead of time. Also read | Orion capsule returns to Earth following a record voyage around the Moon Meanwhile, Sharif has issued a statement on Twitter regarding the rocket fire from Taliban forces on a border crossing with Pakistan that led to the death of six civilians. In the Twitter post, the Pakistan PM demanded that “the Afghan Interim government should ensure that such incidents are not repeated." "Pakistan has also approached Afghan authorities at Kabul to highlight (the) severity of the situation and demanded strict action to obviate any such recurrence of the incident in future," the Pakistan military said. (With inputs from agencies)

Imran Khan gives deadline to Shehbaz Sharif government for early elections in Pakistan

Turmoil is not new to Pakistan whether it is political or economic and this time both are knocking its doors with wide arms open as former Prime Minister Imran Khan calls for disillusion of assemblies of two states is now seeming like a slippery slope towards more political chaos. Imran Khan-led Tehreek-e-Insaf has given an ultimatum to the ruling coalition to come up with the final formula for general elections.

Pakistan: Political crisis continue; former PM Imran Khan's gives ultimatum to ruling coalition

The Indian subcontinent showed its politically dynamic and democratically fragile side in all its glory in 2022. The year began with former Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan's television appearances claiming a 'foreign hand' in ousting him from power, which he said was imminent. By the middle of 2022, people on the island nation of Sri Lanka at India's south made up their mind that they were done with the perceived presidential incompetence and corruption by the then President Gotabaya Rajapaksa&nbsp;and his administration.&nbsp;

Imran Khan was ousted from power on April 10 following a midnight no-trust-vote in Pakistan's National Assembly. As Khan's Pakistan-Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party members lost no-trust motion, their walkout from the National Assembly was followed by the opposition lawmakers rising on their spots to sing the country's national anthem. No Pakistani Prime Minister has ever completed a five-year term and neither Imran Khan nor 2022 could break this convention that over the decades has come to mark Pakistan's democratic fragility.&nbsp;

By the middle of 2022, the Sri Lankans marched to the President's House in Colombo, forcing President Gotabaya Rajapaksa&nbsp;to flee the nation. Pakistan eventually got Shehbaz Sharif as its 23rd Prime Minister, while Sri Lanka got Ranil Wickremsinghe as its President.&nbsp;

When Imran Khan said he will play 'till last ball'

On the evening of March 31, the televisions in Pakistan showed a man&nbsp;who had won the country its first-ever Cricket world cup in 1992. Still Pakistan's Prime Minister then, Imran Khan's body-language was timid. There were tongue-slips that resulted in diplomatic fiascos. There were unverified claims that gave fertile ground to&nbsp;opposition politicians to attack Khan's legitimacy as Prime Minister. Khan claimed that lawmakers were being paid 200 to 250 million Pakistani rupees to vote against him in the impending no-trust-vote. In what appeared to be a tongue-slip, Khan said that 'America... no not America some other country', had a hand in destabilising his government.&nbsp;

"I have played cricket for 20 years and I will play till the last ball. I have never given up in my life," Khan said with a triumphant pretense. "You will see that I will emerge stronger after the vote (on no-confidence), no matter what the result of the vote is," Imran Khan said on March 31 in a television address.&nbsp;

Ten days later, Khan was ousted from power after a no-trust-vote citing cricketer-turned-politician's alleged involvement in Toshakhana scandal.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-decoding-pakistans-toshakhana-gifts-controversy-473082">Gravitas: Decoding Pakistan's 'Toshakhana' Gifts Controversy</a>

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Khan was replaced by Shehbaz Sharif, Pakistan Muslim League (Nawaz) leader and brother of former prime minister Nawaz Sharif. Months later in November, Khan faced an attempt at his life when he was shot in the leg while addressing people in Pakistan's Punjab province.

Both for democracy in Pakistan as well as for Imran Khan, 2022 could not bring the best that Pakistani citizens and Khan's supporters would have expected.&nbsp;

When Sri Lanka's economic decline brought people on streets

<img alt="Sri Lankans protesting in May 2022 against President Gotabaya Rajapaksa" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="42c046c3-5d9a-4cbe-a9d7-a8dddf779a35" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%2826%29_23.jpg" />

Stoked by an unprecedented economic decline, Sri Lanka had its most significant change at the country's helm in July 2022 when people stormed into President Gotabaya Rajapaksa's office to demand his dismissal from duties. President Gotabaya's ancestral home, too, was set on fire by agitating protestors. People of all walks of life affected by 10-hour power outages, shortages of essentials such as cooking gas and fuel joined the protest movement holding the government responsible. 
Gotabaya fled for his life, first to the Maldives and later to Singapore.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/victory-for-the-people-sri-lankas-protests-marks-100-days-waiting-for-the-new-leader-498863#the-worst-economic-crisis-since-1948-498856">Victory for the people: Sri Lanka’s protests marks 100 days, waiting for the new leader</a>

Public fury against Gotabaya and his family members, who held prominent positions of power in the government, surged this year as Sri Lankans suffocated amid crippling shortages and soaring living costs that his government reportedly failed to address. The agitations, which first manifested as pocket protests, built up between April to June at Colombo’s seafront and several other locations across the island, and culminated in the unprecedented show of resistance in the capital on July 9.&nbsp; 
Gotabaya Rajapaksa officially resigned on July 15. The protesters, too, left the main anti-government protest camp at Colombo's Galle Face promenade where they had been stationed since April 9 branding it as the 'Gota go home village' (Rajapaksa go home).

Gotabaya Rajapaksa was replaced by Ranil Wickremesinghe as Sri Lanka President. &nbsp;

For the Indian subcontinent, the 2022 ended with Nepal re-electing Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba for a second term. Whereas Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina of Bangladesh sought a fifth term in the elections that are scheduled to be held in January 2024, against the demands of opposition that has been seeking immediate elections in the country.&nbsp;

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The Indian subcontinent showed its politically dynamic and democratically fragile side in all its glory in 2022. The year began with former Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan's television appearances claiming a 'foreign hand' in ousting him from power, which he said was imminent.

The Indian subcontinent showed its politically dynamic and democratically fragile side in all its glory in 2022. The year began with former Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan's television appearances claiming a 'foreign hand' in ousting him from power, which he said was imminent. By the middle of 2022, people on the island nation of Sri Lanka at India's south made up their mind that they were done with the perceived presidential incompetence and corruption by the then President Gotabaya Rajapaksa and his administration. Imran Khan was ousted from power on April 10 following a midnight no-trust-vote in Pakistan's National Assembly. As Khan's Pakistan-Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party members lost no-trust motion, their walkout from the National Assembly was followed by the opposition lawmakers rising on their spots to sing the country's national anthem. No Pakistani Prime Minister has ever completed a five-year term and neither Imran Khan nor 2022 could break this convention that over the decades has come to mark Pakistan's democratic fragility. By the middle of 2022, the Sri Lankans marched to the President's House in Colombo, forcing President Gotabaya Rajapaksa to flee the nation. Pakistan eventually got Shehbaz Sharif as its 23rd Prime Minister, while Sri Lanka got Ranil Wickremsinghe as its President. When Imran Khan said he will play 'till last ball' On the evening of March 31, the televisions in Pakistan showed a man who had won the country its first-ever Cricket world cup in 1992. Still Pakistan's Prime Minister then, Imran Khan's body-language was timid. There were tongue-slips that resulted in diplomatic fiascos. There were unverified claims that gave fertile ground to opposition politicians to attack Khan's legitimacy as Prime Minister. Khan claimed that lawmakers were being paid 200 to 250 million Pakistani rupees to vote against him in the impending no-trust-vote. In what appeared to be a tongue-slip, Khan said that 'America... no not America some other country', had a hand in destabilising his government. "I have played cricket for 20 years and I will play till the last ball. I have never given up in my life," Khan said with a triumphant pretense. "You will see that I will emerge stronger after the vote (on no-confidence), no matter what the result of the vote is," Imran Khan said on March 31 in a television address. Ten days later, Khan was ousted from power after a no-trust-vote citing cricketer-turned-politician's alleged involvement in Toshakhana scandal. WATCH | Gravitas: Decoding Pakistan's 'Toshakhana' Gifts Controversy × Khan was replaced by Shehbaz Sharif, Pakistan Muslim League (Nawaz) leader and brother of former prime minister Nawaz Sharif. Months later in November, Khan faced an attempt at his life when he was shot in the leg while addressing people in Pakistan's Punjab province. Both for democracy in Pakistan as well as for Imran Khan, 2022 could not bring the best that Pakistani citizens and Khan's supporters would have expected. When Sri Lanka's economic decline brought people on streets Stoked by an unprecedented economic decline, Sri Lanka had its most significant change at the country's helm in July 2022 when people stormed into President Gotabaya Rajapaksa's office to demand his dismissal from duties. President Gotabaya's ancestral home, too, was set on fire by agitating protestors. People of all walks of life affected by 10-hour power outages, shortages of essentials such as cooking gas and fuel joined the protest movement holding the government responsible. Gotabaya fled for his life, first to the Maldives and later to Singapore. ALSO READ | Victory for the people: Sri Lanka’s protests marks 100 days, waiting for the new leader Public fury against Gotabaya and his family members, who held prominent positions of power in the government, surged this year as Sri Lankans suffocated amid crippling shortages and soaring living costs that his government reportedly failed to address. The agitations, which first manifested as pocket protests, built up between April to June at Colombo’s seafront and several other locations across the island, and culminated in the unprecedented show of resistance in the capital on July 9. Gotabaya Rajapaksa officially resigned on July 15. The protesters, too, left the main anti-government protest camp at Colombo's Galle Face promenade where they had been stationed since April 9 branding it as the 'Gota go home village' (Rajapaksa go home). Gotabaya Rajapaksa was replaced by Ranil Wickremesinghe as Sri Lanka President. For the Indian subcontinent, the 2022 ended with Nepal re-electing Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba for a second term. Whereas Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina of Bangladesh sought a fifth term in the elections that are scheduled to be held in January 2024, against the demands of opposition that has been seeking immediate elections in the country. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Imran Khan and Rajapaksa: 2022 was a year of political ousters in South Asia

Imran Khan has made it to the headlines again.&nbsp;

PTI chief on Wednesday (Dec 07) announced an 11-day campaign for his long march saying that he will now take the "next step" if the ruling Shehbaz government tries to delay the elections.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-election-commission-moves-to-remove-imran-khan-as-pti-chief-540558">Also read |&nbsp;Pakistan Election Commission moves to remove Imran Khan as PTI chief</a>

During the first phase of the march, mass rallies and gatherings will be organised in Lahore from December 7 to 17. The campaign will&nbsp;start with a rally in Hammad Azhar.

The ousted prime minister of the country met young journalists, social media activists and YouTubers on Wednesday and discussed political aspects of the country such as constraints on freedom of speech.&nbsp;

Imran said, "I am fighting for the nation's true freedom. People are fighting alongside me to overthrow the authoritarian system."

Pakistan's&nbsp;Election Commission has officially started the process to remove Khan as PTI chief.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/big-mistake-ex-pak-pm-khan-regrets-extending-tenure-of-former-army-chief-bajwa-540446">Also read |&nbsp;‘Big mistake’: Ex-Pak PM Khan regrets extending tenure of former army chief Bajwa</a>

He even made fun of the Shehbaz government saying that the country's immunity was being granted for $13.36 billion (Rs 1,100 billion ) under the "NRO-2."

The long march in the South Asian country has been organised for the past few days demanding an early election in the country. thousands of Khan's supporters have been showing their support.

A few days back, Khan announced that the PTI will quit all assemblies as it does not want to be a part of the system. However, he has now shown his willingness of halting the decision to dissolve assemblies in Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Imran Khan has made it to the headlines again. PTI chief on Wednesday (Dec 07) announced an 11-day campaign for his long march saying that he will now take the "next step" if the ruling Shehbaz government tries to delay the elections.

Imran Khan has made it to the headlines again. PTI chief on Wednesday (Dec 07) announced an 11-day campaign for his long march saying that he will now take the "next step" if the ruling Shehbaz government tries to delay the elections. Also read | Pakistan Election Commission moves to remove Imran Khan as PTI chief During the first phase of the march, mass rallies and gatherings will be organised in Lahore from December 7 to 17. The campaign will start with a rally in Hammad Azhar. The ousted prime minister of the country met young journalists, social media activists and YouTubers on Wednesday and discussed political aspects of the country such as constraints on freedom of speech. Imran said, "I am fighting for the nation's true freedom. People are fighting alongside me to overthrow the authoritarian system." Pakistan's Election Commission has officially started the process to remove Khan as PTI chief. Also read | ‘Big mistake’: Ex-Pak PM Khan regrets extending tenure of former army chief Bajwa He even made fun of the Shehbaz government saying that the country's immunity was being granted for $13.36 billion (Rs 1,100 billion ) under the "NRO-2." The long march in the South Asian country has been organised for the past few days demanding an early election in the country. thousands of Khan's supporters have been showing their support. A few days back, Khan announced that the PTI will quit all assemblies as it does not want to be a part of the system. However, he has now shown his willingness of halting the decision to dissolve assemblies in Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

'Fighting for nation's true freedom': Imran Khan announces 11-day campaign for long march

Ramping up his attack against General Qamar Javed Bajwa, who recently stepped down as Pakistan’s army chief, former prime minister Imran Khan said he regrets extending the tenure of the military chief in 2019.

Terming his decision a “big mistake”, Khan accused Bajwa of playing a “double game” against his government.

In an interview with a local TV channel, the ex-PM said he regretted putting his trust in the then-army chief. “I would believe in everything General Bajwa would tell me because our interests were the same… that we had to save the country.”

“I did not get to know how the lies were spoken and I was betrayed,” he added.

Khan, who was ousted in April this year after losing a no-confidence motion in parliament, claimed that he received reports from the intelligence agencies on “what games were being played against his government”.

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He alleged that the military establishment under General Bajwa was in cahoots with Pakistan Muslim League (N) chief Nawaz Sharif to topple his government.

The former-cricketer-turned politician further alleged that their partnership became apparent following the removal of Lt Gen (retd.) Faiz Hameed, considered close to Bajwa, as the ISI chief in October 2021.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/asim-munir-kicks-off-armys-game-of-thrones-in-pakistan-with-major-reshuffle-539646">General Asim Munir kicks off Pakistan army's game of thrones with major reshuffle</a>

“Gen Bajwa was playing a double game and I discovered later that even PTI’s members were being given different messages,” he was quoted as saying.

Gen Bajwa, 61, retired on November 29 after getting a three-year extension in 2019 by the then prime minister Khan.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-mends-its-strategy-after-ttp-calls-off-ceasefire-539099">Pakistan mends its strategy after TTP calls off ceasefire</a>

On a number of occasions, Khan had lashed out against the former military chief for allegedly interfering in government affairs.

Khan and Bajwa used to enjoy cordial relations as it was widely believed and claimed by the opposition that the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party chief won the elections in 2018 with the help of the army, which was headed by Bajwa at that time.

In his farewell address last week, Bajwa said that his decision to keep the military establishment “apolitical” will shield it from the “vagaries of politics” in the coup-prone country.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Ramping up his attack against General Qamar Javed Bajwa, who recently stepped down as Pakistan’s army chief, former prime minister Imran Khan said he regrets extending the tenure of the military chief in 2019.

Ramping up his attack against General Qamar Javed Bajwa, who recently stepped down as Pakistan’s army chief, former prime minister Imran Khan said he regrets extending the tenure of the military chief in 2019. Terming his decision a “big mistake”, Khan accused Bajwa of playing a “double game” against his government. In an interview with a local TV channel, the ex-PM said he regretted putting his trust in the then-army chief. “I would believe in everything General Bajwa would tell me because our interests were the same… that we had to save the country.” “I did not get to know how the lies were spoken and I was betrayed,” he added. Khan, who was ousted in April this year after losing a no-confidence motion in parliament, claimed that he received reports from the intelligence agencies on “what games were being played against his government”. “We were constantly told that they want continuity, while in the background conspiracy was happening”-@ImranKhanPTI pic.twitter.com/0JOEjowHOu — PTI (@PTIofficial) December 3, 2022 × He alleged that the military establishment under General Bajwa was in cahoots with Pakistan Muslim League (N) chief Nawaz Sharif to topple his government. The former-cricketer-turned politician further alleged that their partnership became apparent following the removal of Lt Gen (retd.) Faiz Hameed, considered close to Bajwa, as the ISI chief in October 2021. Also read | General Asim Munir kicks off Pakistan army's game of thrones with major reshuffle “Gen Bajwa was playing a double game and I discovered later that even PTI’s members were being given different messages,” he was quoted as saying. Gen Bajwa, 61, retired on November 29 after getting a three-year extension in 2019 by the then prime minister Khan. Also read | Pakistan mends its strategy after TTP calls off ceasefire On a number of occasions, Khan had lashed out against the former military chief for allegedly interfering in government affairs. Khan and Bajwa used to enjoy cordial relations as it was widely believed and claimed by the opposition that the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party chief won the elections in 2018 with the help of the army, which was headed by Bajwa at that time. In his farewell address last week, Bajwa said that his decision to keep the military establishment “apolitical” will shield it from the “vagaries of politics” in the coup-prone country. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

‘Big mistake’: Ex-Pak PM Khan regrets extending tenure of former army chief Bajwa

Former Pakistan PM Imran Khan accuses General Bajwa of playing double game with him. He also accused Bajwa of conspiring with PML-N Supremo. Watch further to know more.

WION Dispatch: Imran Khan accuses former Pakistan army chief of 'betraying' him

WION's Anas Mallick speaks up Imran Khan's silence over Pakistan's new army chief

Former Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan sustained bullet injuries on his leg and has been shifted to a hospital in Lahore. According to the police, the suspect who opened fire on Khan's container has been arrested.

Watch: Former Pakistan PM Imran Khan shot in the leg during his long march

Former Prime Minister of Pakistan Imran Khan is all set to rejoin his long march to Rawalpindi on Saturday. Khan has called on his supporters to join him for the climax of his protest movement which will conclude in Islamabad. The PTI Chief said that he is determined to finish the march despite being injured.

Imran: Will not be part of this system, we will quit all assemblies | Pakistan

Thousands of Imran Khan's supporters gathered in the city of Rawalpindi on Saturday as the former Pakistan Prime Minister called off his month-long 'Azadi March'. In his first public appearance after surviving in an assassination bid, Imran Khan in another surprising move said that his party will quit all the assemblies.

Pakistan: Imran calls off Azadi March, what next? Assembly resignations, Imran's bluff?

Pakistan: Imran Khan calls off his month-long 'Azadi March'; says 'Will not be part of this system'

Pakistan's Interior Minister says, 'PTI won't be able to dissolve Punjab Assembly'

Pakistan: Imran Khan says, 'Will not be part of this system'

Pakistan's former prime minister Imran Khanhas called off his long protest march in Islamabad, fearing it would cause havoc in the country.&nbsp;Khan made his announcement on Saturday (Nov 26) in his first public appearance since he was attacked. Khan-led nationwide march, which was supposed to conclude&nbsp;in Islamabad, presented a high risk of escalating political unrest with an ongoing economic crisis.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/freedom-or-slavery-imran-khan-spells-out-ptis-political-future-in-rawalpindi-537748">Also read |&nbsp;Pakistan: Imran Khan announces PTI members will quit all assemblies</a>

Speaking to a&nbsp;crowd of thousands of his supporters, Khan said, "I have decided not to go to Islamabad because I know there will be destruction and the loss will be to the country."&nbsp; He said that they are quitting all assemblies.&nbsp;

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ہم اس نظام کا حصہ نہیں رہیں گے، ہم نے فیصلہ کیا ہے کہ ہم ساری اسمبلیوں سے نکلنے لگے ہیں۔ عمران خان 
 
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Watch |&nbsp;Pakistan: Imran Khan calls off his month-long 'Azadi March'; says 'Will not be part of this system'

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This time, a heavy security system was in place for Khan. An official told GEO News that approximately 10,000 personnel had been deployed. Khan said that many security sources had informed him that his life was still in danger, Reuters reported.

On Saturday (Nov 26), instead of standing at the rostrum to address the audience, Khan entered the stage using a walking frame and sat behind a bulletproof glass.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/imran-khan-to-head-to-rawalpindi-for-the-long-march-despite-the-terror-threat-537598">Also&nbsp;read |&nbsp;Imran Khan to head to Rawalpindi for the long march despite terror threat</a>

Last month, when Khan was heading towards Islamabad for his demonstrations, he was wounded in a blatant assassination attempt, his aides stated. He claimed that three shooters tried to kill him in Wazirabad.&nbsp;

In a new effort to push for early elections, Khan said that he's currently discussing with his party&nbsp;about the possibility of resigning from all provincial assemblies. PTI is still in charge in two provinces and two administrative entities despite having already resigned from the federal parliament.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Pakistan's former prime minister Imran Khanhas called off his long protest march in Islamabad, fearing it would cause havoc in the country. Khan made his announcement on Saturday (Nov 26) in his first public appearance since he was attacked.

Pakistan's former prime minister Imran Khanhas called off his long protest march in Islamabad, fearing it would cause havoc in the country. Khan made his announcement on Saturday (Nov 26) in his first public appearance since he was attacked. Khan-led nationwide march, which was supposed to conclude in Islamabad, presented a high risk of escalating political unrest with an ongoing economic crisis. Also read | Pakistan: Imran Khan announces PTI members will quit all assemblies Speaking to a crowd of thousands of his supporters, Khan said, "I have decided not to go to Islamabad because I know there will be destruction and the loss will be to the country." He said that they are quitting all assemblies. ہم اس نظام کا حصہ نہیں رہیں گے، ہم نے فیصلہ کیا ہے کہ ہم ساری اسمبلیوں سے نکلنے لگے ہیں۔ عمران خان #حقیقی_آزادی_لانگ_مارچ pic.twitter.com/sAVUqRZk2M — PTI (@PTIofficial) November 26, 2022 × Watch | Pakistan: Imran Khan calls off his month-long 'Azadi March'; says 'Will not be part of this system' This time, a heavy security system was in place for Khan. An official told GEO News that approximately 10,000 personnel had been deployed. Khan said that many security sources had informed him that his life was still in danger, Reuters reported. On Saturday (Nov 26), instead of standing at the rostrum to address the audience, Khan entered the stage using a walking frame and sat behind a bulletproof glass. Also read | Imran Khan to head to Rawalpindi for the long march despite terror threat Last month, when Khan was heading towards Islamabad for his demonstrations, he was wounded in a blatant assassination attempt, his aides stated. He claimed that three shooters tried to kill him in Wazirabad. In a new effort to push for early elections, Khan said that he's currently discussing with his party about the possibility of resigning from all provincial assemblies. PTI is still in charge in two provinces and two administrative entities despite having already resigned from the federal parliament. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Former Pak PM Imran Khan calls off long march in Islamabad to avoid ‘chaos’ in nation

Pakistan: Imran Khan's long march 3.0 is underway in Rawalpindi

Imran Khan, the chairman of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) and a former prime minister, has declared that the "Haqeqi Azadi" march of his party will not travel to Islamabad because he does not want to sow discord and disorder in the nation.&nbsp;

Speaking to the party's supporters in Rawalpindi on Saturday, he stated, “They [government] cannot afford Islamabad march... they cannot stop millions from entering Islamabad. We could have created create Sri Lanka-like situation.”&nbsp;

However, he said, the party has chosen to resign from every national legislative body in an effort to pressure the country's current leaders into calling for early elections.&nbsp;

Over three weeks after former Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan purportedly faced an assassination attempt, the Pakistan-Tehreek-e-Insaaf (PTI) chief addressed a rally at the conclusion of a long march in Rawalpindi on Saturday. Addressing the crowd while sitting on a chair, Khan hailed it as a "defining moment", adding, that Pakistan is standing at the crossroad of slavery akin to colonialism and freedom that only an early election will ensure in the country.&nbsp;

In what is popularly addressed as "long march 2.0" by his loyal supporters, Khan reignited his calls for early elections months after his ouster from power after a no-confidence vote in April&nbsp;this year.

Khan insists that if an early vote is called, he will win overwhelmingly.

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Quite a crowd as the Imran Khan rally formally commences, PTI Leader <a href="https://twitter.com/FaisalJavedKhan?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@FaisalJavedKhan</a> announces that Khan will here at Rawalpindi shortly. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PTILongMarch?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PTILongMarch</a> <a href="https://t.co/xMrAgUzer8">pic.twitter.com/xMrAgUzer8</a>
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Earlier on Saturday, Imran Khan reached Rawalpindi from Lahore to lead the long march. For Khan's first public gathering since November 3 -- the day when he was shot in the leg -- permission was sought for a rally in Rawalpindi's Faizabad but the venue was changed to Rehmanabad area of the garrison city due to "security reasons".&nbsp;

Convoys of Imran Khan's&nbsp;PTI leaders, workers and supporters made their way to Rawalpindi on Saturday for the ‘climax’ of the Haqeeqi Azadi (Real Freedom) march.&nbsp;

Khan was removed from the prime minister's office after a political furore over his alleged involvement in the Toshakhana scandal. He subsequently failed to win a no-confidence vote in Pakistan's National Assembly, a development, Khan alleged, was helmed over by the US. Following his ouster from power, he went on to galvanise his party across Pakistan, demanding fresh elections.

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Imran Khan, the chairman of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) and a former prime minister, has declared that the "Haqeqi Azadi" march of his party will not travel to Islamabad because he does not want to sow discord and disorder in the nation.

Imran Khan, the chairman of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) and a former prime minister, has declared that the "Haqeqi Azadi" march of his party will not travel to Islamabad because he does not want to sow discord and disorder in the nation. Speaking to the party's supporters in Rawalpindi on Saturday, he stated, “They [government] cannot afford Islamabad march... they cannot stop millions from entering Islamabad. We could have created create Sri Lanka-like situation.” However, he said, the party has chosen to resign from every national legislative body in an effort to pressure the country's current leaders into calling for early elections. Over three weeks after former Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan purportedly faced an assassination attempt, the Pakistan-Tehreek-e-Insaaf (PTI) chief addressed a rally at the conclusion of a long march in Rawalpindi on Saturday. Addressing the crowd while sitting on a chair, Khan hailed it as a "defining moment", adding, that Pakistan is standing at the crossroad of slavery akin to colonialism and freedom that only an early election will ensure in the country. In what is popularly addressed as "long march 2.0" by his loyal supporters, Khan reignited his calls for early elections months after his ouster from power after a no-confidence vote in April this year. Khan insists that if an early vote is called, he will win overwhelmingly. Quite a crowd as the Imran Khan rally formally commences, PTI Leader @FaisalJavedKhan announces that Khan will here at Rawalpindi shortly. #PTILongMarch pic.twitter.com/xMrAgUzer8 — Anas Mallick (@AnasMallick) November 26, 2022 × Earlier on Saturday, Imran Khan reached Rawalpindi from Lahore to lead the long march. For Khan's first public gathering since November 3 -- the day when he was shot in the leg -- permission was sought for a rally in Rawalpindi's Faizabad but the venue was changed to Rehmanabad area of the garrison city due to "security reasons". Convoys of Imran Khan's PTI leaders, workers and supporters made their way to Rawalpindi on Saturday for the ‘climax’ of the Haqeeqi Azadi (Real Freedom) march. Khan was removed from the prime minister's office after a political furore over his alleged involvement in the Toshakhana scandal. He subsequently failed to win a no-confidence vote in Pakistan's National Assembly, a development, Khan alleged, was helmed over by the US. Following his ouster from power, he went on to galvanise his party across Pakistan, demanding fresh elections. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Pakistan: Imran Khan announces PTI members will quit all assemblies

Pakistan: Imran Khan to rejoin Azadi March today, calls on support to join climax of march protest

Pakistan: Imran Khan's 'Azadi March' gets conditional permit

Former Pakistan prime minister Imran Khan is expected to head to Rawalpindi today to rejoin his long march, brought to a halt after the assassination bid. A massive rally has been planned by Khan's Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaaf (PTI) party which is urging its supporters to reach the rally spot and play a role in the 'Haqeeqi Azadi movement'.

Former Pakistan prime minister Imran Khan is expected to head to Rawalpindi today to rejoin his long march, brought to a halt after the assassination bid. A massive rally has been planned by Khan's Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaaf (PTI) party which is urging its supporters to reach the rally spot and play a role in the 'Haqeeqi Azadi movement'. Today is a historic day for Pakistan. Please try your best to be at #PindiJalsa by 1pm. If for any reason, you are unable to attend, you can play your role for Haqeeqi Azadi movement via donations at https://t.co/LQ5ltcA1RH #یوم_انقلاب_26_نومبر pic.twitter.com/BAnHY5JELZ — PTI (@PTIofficial) November 26, 2022 × The party received permission from the authorities for the public gathering but the venue has been changed from Faizabad to Rehmanabad on Murree Road. It is being reported that Khan will reach Rawalpindi using a helicopter via Lahore. It will be the first time that Khan will attend a public gathering after being wounded in the failed assassination bid. WATCH | WION Dispatch: Assassination bid on Pakistan PM Imran Khan, suspect arrested × On Friday, Khan, in a TV interview said, despite being injured, he was determined to head to the garrison city for the sake of the nation. “Going to Rawalpindi tomorrow as it is a decisive time in the country. We want to become a country that Quaid-e-Azam and Allama Iqbal dreamt of,” said Khan. While Khan embarks upon the march, Pakistan's Interior Minister Rana Sanaullah has advised the PTI chief to postpone the event as intelligence agencies have issued alerts that terrorist attacks can be carried out on the route. “Security agencies have already issued a red alert in the city. Your own life is also under threat. “I also request PTI workers to refrain from participating in PTI’s [‘fitna’] march," Sanaullah told a local TV channel. Similarly, last week, Aamer Farooq, the chief justice of Islamabad High Court said there is a high possibility that the PTI leader might be the target of another assassination attempt. Read more: Pak HC urges Shehbaz govt to protect Imran Khan as he may be assassination attempt target again Farooq added that it was the duty of the administration to take action against the looming threat and conduct an investigation. "It is the administration’s discretion if they want to give permission for D-Chowk or F-9 park. The same was ordered by the Supreme Court as well." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Imran Khan to head to Rawalpindi for the long march despite terror threat

Former Prime Minister and Chairman of the PTI Imran Khan will rejoin his workers and participants of the long march in Rawalpindi on November 26 (Saturday) and from there will lead the rally onward.

WION Dispatch: PTI Chief Imran Khan to rejoin long march in Rawalpindi on Saturday

In Pakistan's politics, former prime minister Imran Khan continues to be the centre of country's news cycle in which he is surrounded by nothing but controversies. The latest among many that has taken over Khan's currently fragile political fortunes is a controversial claim that he also "sold" a gold medal he received from India during his time as Pakistani cricketer. It is being claimed that&nbsp;this Gold Medal was given to ⁦Imran Khan&nbsp;by the Cricket Club of India in 1987 in Mumbai.

During a television programme on Monday, Pakistan defence minister Khawaja Asif said that Imran Khan “had sold a gold medal which he had received from India,” the Express Tribune newspaper on Tuesday quoted the senior Pakistan Muslim League (PML-N) leader as saying.

Asif did not provide any details about the gold medal Khan allegedly sold. Khan's alleged action of selling off the "gold medal" is not illegal. But the chatter in Pakistani media suggests that it is contrary to the high moral standards Khan always talked about.

The 70-year-old cricketer-turned-politician is in the crosshairs these days for buying gifts, including an expensive Graff wristwatch he had received as Prime Minister at a discounted price from the state depository called Toshakhana and selling them for profit.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/former-pakistan-pm-imran-khan-summoned-to-appear-before-court-in-toshakhana-reference-case-536223">Former Pakistan PM Imran Khan summoned to appear before court in Toshakhana reference case</a>

Usually, such gifts are either permanently deposited in the Toshakhana or can be bought by the person who received them at a lower price.

Khan had been disqualified by the Election Commission of Pakistan for making “false statements and incorrect declaration” in the Toshakhana issue.

WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/battle-drawn-between-pakistans-army-imran-khan-after-attack-on-former-prime-minister-531464">Battle drawn between Pakistan's army, Imran Khan after attack on former Prime Minister</a>

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On September 8, the deposed prime minister admitted in a written reply that he had sold at least four presents he received during his tenure as Pakistan Prime Minister.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, addressing a session of the National Assembly, the defence minister took a dig at Khan and said the former prime minister has “gone mad for power.” He said Khan should not “target” the institutions that “supported him unconditionally” during the last four years.

Asif said that the PTI chairman could not deliver despite the assistance extended to him by the institutions that backed him. He noted that Khan was censuring the armed forces of the country despite the fact that they had announced to remain apolitical.

“After 75 years, we are at a point where we can say that all the institutions are playing their constitutional roles. These institutions extended ‘unconditional support’ to Imran Khan,” he said.

“He (Imran) should not attack these institutions but rather should be ashamed of himself that despite their assistance he could not perform.” Khan, who escaped an assassination attempt earlier this month, is expected to relaunch his long march this week, demanding early elections.

Khan was ousted in April after a no-confidence motion was passed against him.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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In Pakistan's politics, former prime minister Imran Khan continues to be the centre of country's news cycle in which he is surrounded by nothing but controversies.

In Pakistan's politics, former prime minister Imran Khan continues to be the centre of country's news cycle in which he is surrounded by nothing but controversies. The latest among many that has taken over Khan's currently fragile political fortunes is a controversial claim that he also "sold" a gold medal he received from India during his time as Pakistani cricketer. It is being claimed that this Gold Medal was given to ⁦Imran Khan by the Cricket Club of India in 1987 in Mumbai. During a television programme on Monday, Pakistan defence minister Khawaja Asif said that Imran Khan “had sold a gold medal which he had received from India,” the Express Tribune newspaper on Tuesday quoted the senior Pakistan Muslim League (PML-N) leader as saying. Asif did not provide any details about the gold medal Khan allegedly sold. Khan's alleged action of selling off the "gold medal" is not illegal. But the chatter in Pakistani media suggests that it is contrary to the high moral standards Khan always talked about. The 70-year-old cricketer-turned-politician is in the crosshairs these days for buying gifts, including an expensive Graff wristwatch he had received as Prime Minister at a discounted price from the state depository called Toshakhana and selling them for profit. ALSO READ | Former Pakistan PM Imran Khan summoned to appear before court in Toshakhana reference case Usually, such gifts are either permanently deposited in the Toshakhana or can be bought by the person who received them at a lower price. Khan had been disqualified by the Election Commission of Pakistan for making “false statements and incorrect declaration” in the Toshakhana issue. WATCH | Battle drawn between Pakistan's army, Imran Khan after attack on former Prime Minister × On September 8, the deposed prime minister admitted in a written reply that he had sold at least four presents he received during his tenure as Pakistan Prime Minister. Meanwhile, addressing a session of the National Assembly, the defence minister took a dig at Khan and said the former prime minister has “gone mad for power.” He said Khan should not “target” the institutions that “supported him unconditionally” during the last four years. Asif said that the PTI chairman could not deliver despite the assistance extended to him by the institutions that backed him. He noted that Khan was censuring the armed forces of the country despite the fact that they had announced to remain apolitical. “After 75 years, we are at a point where we can say that all the institutions are playing their constitutional roles. These institutions extended ‘unconditional support’ to Imran Khan,” he said. “He (Imran) should not attack these institutions but rather should be ashamed of himself that despite their assistance he could not perform.” Khan, who escaped an assassination attempt earlier this month, is expected to relaunch his long march this week, demanding early elections. Khan was ousted in April after a no-confidence motion was passed against him. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Imran Khan 'sold' gold medal he received as cricketer  from India: Pak defence minister

Let us take a look at stories generating interest across WION's social media channels. In today's video we cover - Cristiano Ronaldo leaves Manchester United with immediate effect in sports, Google to lay off at least 10,000 'poor performing' employees in 2023 in tech, Imran Khan sold gold medal received from India as cricketer and Kyiv said they will probe video of alleged war crime in news.

Trending on WION: Usage of sanitary napkins may lead to cancer, says new study

An Islamabad trial court on Monday issued a notice to Pakistan's former prime minister Imran Khan in the Toshakhana reference summoning him to appear before it on Tuesday (November 22). As per reports Additional Sessions Judge Zafar Iqbal will preside over the hearing.

Last month Khan was disqualified from his National Assembly seat last under Article 63(1)(p) by the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) over&nbsp;allegations that he had lied to officials about the gifts he had received from foreign dignitaries while serving as Pakistan's prime minister, reports Tribune.

<h2>Gravitas: Decoding Pakistan's 'Toshakhana' Gifts Controversy</h2>

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The ruling coalition government filed the Toshakhana reference against Imran Khan. It alleged that the leader had "deliberately concealed" his assets, details of Toshakhana gifts and the proceeds from their sale in 2018 and 2019 while serving as the PM.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/dubai-based-businessman-says-toshakhana-gifts-given-to-ex-pm-imran-khan-sold-to-him-534670">Toshakhana case: Dubai-based businessman says gifts given to ex-PM Imran Khan sold to him</a>

The Pakistan Information Commission (PIC) had instructed Khan's party Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) to release information on the presents given to Imran since he took office in 2018. Still, the party had been hesitant to do so while it was in power claiming that doing so would jeopardise relations with other countries.

But afterwards, in a written response to the ECP on September 8, Khan acknowledged selling at least four gifts he had received while serving as prime minister.

Also read&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-ex-pm-imran-khan-claims-propaganda-cell-feeding-journalists-against-him-534103" hreflang="en">Pakistan ex-PM Imran Khan claims propaganda cell 'feeding journalists' against him</a>

As per Dawn, a Toshakhana is a department under the administrative control of Pakistan's Cabinet Division. Established in 1974, it stores precious presents that foreign dignitaries and heads of other governments and nations have given to rulers, lawmakers, bureaucrats, and officials of the country.&nbsp;

Officials on whom these rules apply according to Toshakhana guidelines are required to disclose to the Cabinet Division any gifts, presents, and other similar materials they receive.

(With inputs from agencies)

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An Islamabad trial court on Monday issued a notice to Pakistan's former prime minister Imran Khan in the Toshakhana reference summoning him to appear before it on Tuesday (November 22).

An Islamabad trial court on Monday issued a notice to Pakistan's former prime minister Imran Khan in the Toshakhana reference summoning him to appear before it on Tuesday (November 22). As per reports Additional Sessions Judge Zafar Iqbal will preside over the hearing. Last month Khan was disqualified from his National Assembly seat last under Article 63(1)(p) by the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) over allegations that he had lied to officials about the gifts he had received from foreign dignitaries while serving as Pakistan's prime minister, reports Tribune. Gravitas: Decoding Pakistan's 'Toshakhana' Gifts Controversy The ruling coalition government filed the Toshakhana reference against Imran Khan. It alleged that the leader had "deliberately concealed" his assets, details of Toshakhana gifts and the proceeds from their sale in 2018 and 2019 while serving as the PM. Also read | Toshakhana case: Dubai-based businessman says gifts given to ex-PM Imran Khan sold to him The Pakistan Information Commission (PIC) had instructed Khan's party Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) to release information on the presents given to Imran since he took office in 2018. Still, the party had been hesitant to do so while it was in power claiming that doing so would jeopardise relations with other countries. But afterwards, in a written response to the ECP on September 8, Khan acknowledged selling at least four gifts he had received while serving as prime minister. Also read | Pakistan ex-PM Imran Khan claims propaganda cell 'feeding journalists' against him As per Dawn, a Toshakhana is a department under the administrative control of Pakistan's Cabinet Division. Established in 1974, it stores precious presents that foreign dignitaries and heads of other governments and nations have given to rulers, lawmakers, bureaucrats, and officials of the country. Officials on whom these rules apply according to Toshakhana guidelines are required to disclose to the Cabinet Division any gifts, presents, and other similar materials they receive. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Former Pakistan PM Imran Khan summoned to appear before court in Toshakhana reference case

Pakistan's former Prime Minister Imran Khan has announced that his freedom March will converge in Rawalpindi on the 26th of November. The Pakistan Tehreek-E-Insaf chairman also plans on announcing his next protest strategy for the Azadi Long March.

Pakistan: Imran Khan to join Freedom March 3.0 in Rawalpindi

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