Rana Sanaullah, a prominent figure within the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), has raised concerns regarding the validity of the sentences handed down to Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan.
Sanaullah suggested that these sentences were strategically used to undermine PML-N’s electoral efforts, questioning whether they would stand up to scrutiny before an impartial judiciary.
Allegations of Political Manipulation in Legal Proceedings
Sanaullah pointed out the perceived manipulation of legal proceedings, alleging they were tailored to benefit PTI’s political agenda.
He emphasized the potential impact of playing the victim card, which he claimed was exploited by PTI to sway public opinion in their favor.
“The cases in which the PTI founder was sentenced [before the February 8 polls] significantly damaged us [PML-N] in the elections due to the victim card used by the PTI. The manner in which the case proceedings were held and the sentences were awarded they would not sustain before a judge who upholds principles of justice,” Sanaullah said while speaking to a private news channel on Tuesday.
کل ہم نے ایک گرینڈ الائنس تشکیل دیا ہے جس میں 6 پارٹیاں شامل ہیں جن کے سربراہان نے مل کر جمہوریت کے لیے کام کرنے کا تہیہ کیا ہے اس پلیٹ فارم سے ہماری باقاعدہ سرگرمیوں کا آغاز عید کے بعد پہلا جلسہ پشین بلوچستان میں ہوگا۔ رؤوف حسن pic.twitter.com/o5D0R46zyb
— PTI (@PTIofficial) April 3, 2024
Doubts Cast on Fairness of Judicial Process
The PML-N leader expressed doubt regarding the fairness of the judicial process, particularly in light of recent developments such as the suspension of Imran Khan’s sentence in the Toshakhana case by the Islamabad High Court (IHC).
He stopped short of making direct accusations but hinted at suspicions of political interference.
“The judge would either remand back the case or would exonerate him [Khan],” the PML-N leader added while stressing that the party has no objection to the former premier securing bail.
Dismissal of Allegations of Judicial Collusion
Responding to speculation about collusion between PTI and the judiciary or establishment, Sanaullah denied having concrete evidence to support such claims.
He stressed the importance of avoiding unfounded accusations and relying on verifiable information.
“How can I say that the judges acted on someone’s directions?” he said.
PML-N’s Reflection on Election Challenges
Sanaullah also reflected on the challenges faced by PML-N during the general elections, highlighting PTI’s exploitation of arrests of its supporters and the rejection of nomination papers.
Additionally, he acknowledged the impact of economic factors, particularly rising inflation and utility bills, on public sentiment towards the previous Shehbaz Sharif-led government.
