Imran Khan’s Recent Message: A Defiant Stand Against Political Oppression in Pakistan
From “La ilaha illallah” to a System of Suppression
The powerful slogan “La ilaha illallah” founded Pakistan, symbolising liberation from every kind of tyranny. Moreover, the dream was simple: to build a nation grounded in freedom, dignity, and justice. However, today, many fear that authoritarianism and political manipulation have replaced this vision, a concern that is, in fact, echoed in Imran Khan’s latest impassioned statement.
The 26th Amendment: Shattering Democratic Foundations
In his recent message, Imran Khan strongly criticised the controversial 26th constitutional amendment, asserting that it has dismantled the core pillars of a functioning democracy:
1. Voting Rights Voided
Khan claims that election results—especially the usage of Form 47—have stripped the public of meaningful participation. With power allegedly seized without true representation, citizens are left questioning the value of their vote.
2. Rule of Law Undermined
The former prime minister pointed to the judiciary’s diminishing independence; consequently, he suggested that courts now serve as an extension of executive will. Furthermore, loyalty-based placements are replacing merit-based appointments, thereby undermining trust in justice.
3. Erosion of Morality in Governance
According to Khan, morality in governance has all but vanished. Unselected individuals hold sway in assemblies, while political trading and judicial compromise have tainted parliamentary integrity.
4. Media Gagged and Silenced
The message accuses the government of muzzling independent media. Journalists are being silenced or bought, and a chilling atmosphere surrounds free expression. Khan describes this as the death of democratic dialogue.
Resistance and Repression: Assembly Members Suspended
Imran Khan praised members of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) who resisted these changes, including Ahmad Bhachar and 25 other MPAs. He condemned their suspension for protesting inside the Punjab Assembly, stating that when legitimate voices are silenced, they must convene in parallel spaces outside the official halls of power.
“I Prefer Prison Over Slavery”
Channelling Allama Iqbal’s spirit of resistance, Khan declared: “I will live in a dark prison cell, but I will not accept slavery.” This powerful metaphor aligns with Iqbal’s concept of the shaheen—a falcon that never bows to captivity.
He urged the nation, especially PTI supporters, to initiate a democratic movement against oppression after Ashura. His rallying cry: choose peaceful protest over passive submission.
The Nation at a Crossroads
In closing, therefore, Imran Khan’s message warns of a nation drifting away from its foundational ideals. In addition, he believes that Pakistan must reclaim its democratic essence, anchored in transparent elections, judicial integrity, societal ethics, and press freedom.
Ultimately, the real question now is: will the people of Pakistan rise to reclaim their rights or alternatively, continue under a shadow that dims the light of their freedom?”
