The historic session of the National Assembly (NA) session to decide the fate of Prime Minister (PM) Imran Khan is taking place today as per the Supreme Court’s orders. The Opposition came out in full force but twelve hours later, there was no vote in sight.
While parliamentarians are still waiting to vote, different rumours are circulating on social media as to what is going on – and what does PM Khan want?
RUMOUR ONE: PM Khan is seeking a ‘safe exit’
Different news reports are making rounds on social media suggesting that Imran Khan is looking for a ‘safe exit’. Journalist Murtaza Ali Shah in a tweet claimed: “Credible source says Imran Khan ready to step down but wants NRO (guarantees) that cases will not be registered against him & his family members; he’s fine for cases against his cabinet members etc; seeking assurances about his safety and stay. This was discussed several times.”
Jouranlist Najam Sethi confirmed the news saying, “IK seeking safe exit for self and family. Last minute moves.”
RUMOUR TWO: PM evaluating dismissal of Chief of Army Staff
“As per the reports received by journalists, severe differences have emerged in the cabinet of Prime Minister as he is possibly evaluating dismissal of Chief of Army Staff at 2100 Hrs. PM has been reportedly informed to ensure VONC by 2100 Hrs or he will be shown the way out,” tweeted Muhammad Ibrahim Qazi.
“Chief of General Staff, Commander of X Corps, and DG ISI have pledged support to the Chief of Army Staff. Executive Offices responsible to maintain law and order have the mandate to aid the Supreme Court under Article 190,” writes Qazi.
“The President may invoke Article 232 and proclaim emergency consequently the Prime Minister will impose Article 245 calling upon the military to act in aid of civil power. The invocation of Article 232 will have to be placed before National Assembly in 30 days.”
RUMOUR THREE: 111 brigade takes control of PM House, Presidency
“IK and cabinet will resign after the cabinet meeting. 111 brigade took control of the PM House and Presidency, sources,” tweets a broadcast journalist.
RUMOUR FOUR: Imran Khan is seeking security in the capacity of “Former Prime Minister”
Journalist Azaz Syed has claimed that Principal Secretary to the Prime Minister Azam Khan has written a letter to write to the Secretary Interior, asking for security for ‘Former Prime Minister Imran Khan’.
RUMOUR FIVE: Imran Khan to resign
Some rumors are suggesting that Prime Minister Imran Khan will resign before the voting on the no-confidence motion against him will take place. Islamabad based journalist, Haider Sherazi in a tweet said: “Imran Khan is going to submit the resignation.”
RUMOUR SIX: Martial Law
Though, no journalist or news report is hinting towards the possibility of interference of the Army in the current political scenario, it seems like social media is hearing the noise of boots. PPP’s Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari also stated that he thinks PM Khan wants martial law in the country.
