Pakistan: Imran Khan Shot in Reported Assassination Attempt

Image copyright: AP Photos [via AP News]

The Facts

  • Former Pakistani PM, Imran Khan, was shot in the leg when a gunman opened fire at his anti-government protest convoy in Wazirabad in the eastern province of Punjab on Thursday, according to multiple reports.

  • Khan, who chairs the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) political party, was reportedly injured alongside several members and supporters of his group. They were taking part in the so-called "Long March" from Lahore to Islamabad, calling on the Pakistani government to hold early elections.


The Spin

Narrative A

The right to peacefully protest is a cornerstone of democracy, and regardless of what side you stand on, violence should have no place in Pakistan's politics. It's time for a swift investigation to hold those responsible accountable and prevent a repeat attack.

Narrative B

Khan's relentless onslaught on the state has shown him to be undeterred by the prospect of martial law or a bloody revolution and willing to take extreme measures in his quest to regain power. While nothing justifies this violent attack, unchecked hubris could be his downfall. It remains to be seen whether he will reconsider the lengths he's willing to go to in order to achieve his aims.


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