In a significant announcement, Caretaker Prime Minister Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar has emphasized that there will be no preferential treatment for Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaaf (PTI) Chairman Imran Khan and his party members concerning the May 9 attacks on Pakistan Army installations. Speaking during a session at Oxford University’s Oxford Union and addressing Pakistani media following his extensive tour of the US and UK, PM Kakar underscored the principles of equality before the law and fair elections.

“We are committed to conducting fair elections, ensuring that PTI is given equal opportunities to participate. The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) will set the date, and we will adhere to it. There should be no doubt about that,” PM Kakar emphasized.

Responding to inquiries regarding multiple PTI leaders and a former prime minister facing serious charges, including arson, terrorism, and concerns about human rights and media freedoms, PM Kakar asserted that individuals detained or facing legal action have been involved in acts such as vandalism, arson, and damage to public property. Such actions, he noted, would result in charges in any civilized nation.

Furthermore, PM Kakar reiterated that Imran Khan and PTI would not receive special treatment, as everyone is equal in the eyes of the law. He emphasized that no one is above the law, and political considerations cannot be allowed to manipulate the legal system.

PM Kakar expressed regret that PTI did not engage in parliamentary politics, stating, “Had they participated in parliamentary politics, Imran Khan would have been the current leader of the opposition.”

Regarding media freedoms, PM Kakar acknowledged that press freedom faces challenges globally, including in India and Pakistan. However, he assured that criticism is openly expressed in the Pakistani press, and there is no attempt to influence the media through coercion. PM Kakar stated that there is no stifling of the media in Pakistan.

While acknowledging some civil-military imbalances in Pakistan, PM Kakar contended that broader criticism of the Pakistan Army is disproportionate. He added, “Many critics rely on hearsay these days.”

In conclusion, Caretaker Prime Minister Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar affirmed the commitment to uphold the rule of law and equality before it, emphasizing that the electoral process would proceed impartially, with no favoritism shown to any political entity.