ISLAMABAD – Former Prime Minister Imran Khan was ousted in a no-confidence vote in April 2022, and so far different conspiracy theories surfaced claiming the reason behind his ouster, and now his wife Bushra Bibi blamed key Islamic nation behind the toppled government of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf PTI.
In a new video message aimed at engaging Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leaders and workers ahead of the November 24 Protest, Bushra recounted an incident involving Imran Khan’s visit to Saudi Arabia, which she claims contributed to his ouster.
According to the former first lady, it started with the official visit of Imran Khan to the Kingdom. She continued saying former Chief of Army Staff General Qamar Javed Bajwa received a call from Saudi authorities, in which they (people from powerful quarters) questioned Khan’s leadership. “What kind of person have you brought to the Kingdom?” the authorities allegedly asked – a remark that Bushra claims reflected the displeasure of Saudis.
Bushra Bibi quoted members of General Bajwa’s family, who conveyed that the Saudi authorities expressed concern over Imran Khan’s political vision. She claimed that they lamented Khan’s stance, suggesting that he was pushing for Sharia (Islamic law) in Pakistan.
According to Bushra, Saudi officials were worried about Khan’s growing influence and his attempt to position himself as the leader of the Ummah.
Bushra’s comments drew significant political debate, as several political commentators decried PTI’s U-Turn on external influence in the country’s internal politics.
In previous years, Imran Khan blamed the US for his removal and later signaled a willingness to mend ties with Washington, despite previously accusing Biden-led administration of orchestrating his removal from office.
In response, former army chief Qamar Javed Bajwa refuted her claims, asserting that Pakistan-Saudi Arabia relations were strong during the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) government.
He pointed to the OIC summit in Islamabad in March 2022 as evidence of these positive ties and highlighted Imran Khan’s warm reception in Saudi Arabia. Bajwa expressed concern that Bibi’s remarks could lead to a damaging narrative for Imran Khan.
Incumbent government officials also supported Bajwa’s stance, emphasizing the importance of maintaining strong ties with Saudi Arabia and urging political parties to prioritize the country’s foreign policy over political interests
Bajwa, Faiz behind Imran Khan’s ouster, says Maulana Fazl ahead of meeting with PTI leaders
