Islamabad – September 25, 2025 — Pakistan’s power corridors face fresh turmoil as former Prime Minister Imran Khan rejects a reported deal to leave the country, Justice Tariq Mahmood Jhangiri fights his suspension in court, and authorities intensify crackdowns on political and social media figures.
Imran Khan Rejects Exile Offer Linked to Case Withdrawals
Political insiders revealed that government representatives approached Imran Khan inside Adiala Jail with a proposal: leave Pakistan voluntarily, and authorities would withdraw over 300 cases against him.
Imran Khan, however, rejected the offer outright.
I will neither surrender nor ask for any NRO,”
he told his lawyers, referring to the National Reconciliation Ordinance deals that once reshaped Pakistan’s political landscape.
The Islamabad High Court meanwhile delayed the hearing of the £190 million Al-Qadir Trust case until October 16. Analysts believe the delay could indicate ongoing backchannel negotiations, though officials have not confirmed any such talks.
Justice Tariq Mahmood Jhangiri Fights Suspension in Court
Justice Tariq Mahmood Jhangiri, part of the so-called “independent judges,” challenged his suspension over alleged academic discrepancies by personally appearing before the Sindh High Court.
Standing at the podium, he declared before the judges:
I have never delivered judgments under anyone’s pressure. They want to make an example out of me because I refused to compromise my principles.”
Justice KK Agha, however, refused to let him join the proceedings. Lawyers erupted in protest, chanting slogans against the decision inside the courtroom.
Legal experts warned that the Supreme Judicial Council could now move toward permanently dismissing Justice Jhangiri a decision they argue could weaken judicial independence in Pakistan.
Authorities Auction Zulfi Bukhari’s Assets and Arrest Social Media Activist
The crackdown extended beyond the judiciary. Authorities auctioned land worth Rs. 800,000 belonging to former PTI leader Zulfi Bukhari, known for lobbying internationally on Khan’s behalf.
At the same time, the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency arrested social media activist Falak Javed under multiple charges. His lawyer, Mian Ali Ishfaq, called the cases politically motivated and vowed to challenge them in the Islamabad High Court.
“These cases are nothing but an attempt to silence dissent,” Ishfaq told reporters after the hearing.
Analysts See Three Way Power Struggle Emerging
Political analysts say the delays, courtroom dramas, and backdoor negotiations point to a three-way power struggle between the judiciary, the government, and the establishment, with Imran Khan at the center.
“The offers, the legal battles, and the crackdowns show a realignment of power,” political analyst Saqib Basheer observed.
“The coming weeks could decide whether Khan holds his ground or faces the same outcome as past leaders.”
Next Steps Could Reshape Pakistan’s Politics
With the next Al-Qadir Trust case hearing set for October 16 and Justice Tariq’s fate pending, Pakistan’s political landscape stands at a crossroads.
Imran Khan’s refusal to strike a deal has escalated the confrontation, setting the stage for a turbulent political season in the weeks ahead.
