'Pakistan's political situation threatening regional security,' warns Imran Khan in Time op-ed

Former Prime Minister and founder of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf Imran Khan wrote an op-ed in the American news magazine Time on February 28, expressing concerns that Pakistan’s democratic backslide could threaten regional security.

Khan has been imprisoned since 2023 on multiple charges, ranging from corruption to misuse of power. He lost power in April 2022 through a vote of no-confidence in Parliament—an act he alleged to be part of a foreign conspiracy against him.

“The politically motivated charges against me are nothing more than an attempt to silence my fight for democracy. The erosion of democracy in Pakistan has far-reaching consequences,” wrote Khan in Time.

He further asserted: “A destabilized Pakistan threatens regional security, disrupts trade, and weakens global democratic values. The world must recognize the urgency of this crisis—not just for Pakistan’s future, but for the stability of South Asia and beyond.”

He alleged that his political party has been the victim of “unprecedented oppression,” with many international organizations expressing concerns. He also raised the issue of military trials for PTI workers convicted in cases related to the violent riots of May 9, 2023.

Interestingly, Khan also pointed out that if Pakistan continues down this path, it risks losing its preferential trade status with the European Union.

Pakistan has held GSP+ status since 2014, granting it preferential access to the European market. It remains the largest beneficiary among all GSP+ countries, with exports exceeding €6 billion in 2023.

He warned: “Pakistan risks losing its preferential trade status with the EU, a move that would devastate our economy, particularly the textile sector. Yet, those in power in Pakistan continue down their reckless path.”

Khan also lashed out at Pakistani authorities over the surge in terrorism in the country, particularly in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan.

According to the incarcerated leader, “This has not happened by accident, nor is it simply chance. Rather than addressing these critical security threats, the Pakistani military’s resources have been diverted to a campaign of vengeance against political opponents such as PTI.”

Imran Khan also disclosed that he had authorized his party leaders to engage in dialogue with government leaders to prevent violence.

“Our agenda was clear: a judicial commission to investigate attacks on PTI party workers and unarmed protesters. We also demanded the release of all political prisoners,” he wrote.

“In response, I was offered house arrest in exchange for ambiguous “political space” for PTI, but I rejected this outright”, he added.

He congratulated US President Donald Trump for his “remarkable political comeback.”

“The road ahead will be difficult, but I have no doubt that the people of Pakistan, united in their resolve, will overcome these challenges,” Imran Khan concluded.