Islamabad: Amid speculation that his party was being covertly backed by the Pakistan`s powerful spy agency ISI, cricketer-turned-politician Imran Khan today vowed to "quit politics" if the claim was proved.
The legendary cricketer rubbished claims that the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) was sponsoring Pakistan Tehrik-e-Insaf party.
"I will quit politics if the ISI`s support to Pakistan Tehrik-e-Insaf is proved," he vowed at a news conference held at his residence here.
In the last few months, Imran’s party has emerged as a major player on Pakistan`s uncertain political scenario particularly after it held a massive rally in October in
Lahore which attracted thousands.
However, there has been growing speculation that the
emergence of Pakistan Tehrik-e-Insaf as a political force may
be due to the covert support of the Pakistan Army and military
run ISI.
Amid suggestions that Khan is being backed by the
powerful security establishment, several political leaders
have joined the party.
Former Pakistan Air Force chief and veteran politician
Asghar Khan, who has often called for better relations with
India in recent years, joined Imran`s party today.
Asghar Khan announced his decision to join Pakistan
Tehrik-e-Insaf party at a news conference held at his
residence.
The former Pakistan cricket captain also attended the
conference.
The 90-year-old former air chief pledged his
unconditional support to Imran`s party and said steps would be
taken to merge his Pakistan Tehrik-e-Istaqlal party with the
other party.
Asghar Khan said he was stepping down as the
Tehrik-e-Istaqlal chief. Imran`s said he would take the
Tehrik-e-Istaqlal along in all respects.
Replying to a question, Asghar Khan said Pakistan had not
seen a "single fair, transparent and unrigged election" since
its creation and this was "highly unfortunate".
Endorsing his stance, Imran pledged to continue his
struggle to ensure polls free of rigging.
PTI
