Does Pakistan’s ex-PM Imran Khan face a military trial?

Recent comments by a minister and the army have led to speculation that Khan may face a military trial. Is that legal, and what will it mean?

Islamabad, Pakistan – The Pakistani military and the civilian government have indicated in recent days that former Prime Minister Imran Khan, who has been imprisoned since August last year, might now be tried in the country’s secretive military courts.

“There is ample evidence now against the former prime minister, which points toward holding his trial in a military court,” Defence Minister Khawaja Asif said during an interview with a private news channel last week. However, he did not elaborate on the evidence against Khan.

Asif’s remarks came after a news conference by General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry, the head of the military’s press wing, who hinted that civilians who conspire with military personnel for personal or political gain could face legal action.

Chaudhry outlined the conditions under which a civilian could be tried under military law but avoided directly addressing Khan’s situation.

“Under military law, any individual who uses military personnel, subject to the Army Act, for personal or political gain, and if there’s evidence, will face legal consequences,” Chaudhry said on September 5.

Speculation about Khan’s potential military trial stems from his alleged involvement in unrest on May 9 last year. On that date, Khan’s arrest in connection with a corruption case led to protests by supporters of his Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party. The demonstrations escalated, targeting state buildings and military installations, and resulted in the arrest of thousands of people, of which only about 100 faced military trials.

Amid concerns about Khan being handed over to the