Balochistan Chief Minister and PPP leader Sarfaraz Bugti on Sunday issued a strong defence of Pakistan’s armed forces, accusing PTI founder Imran Khan of propagating a narrative that aligns with the agenda of “hostile agencies” at a time when the country is confronting heightened security challenges.
Speaking at a press conference in Islamabad, Bugti said Pakistan was facing an “intelligence-driven war,” particularly in provinces such as Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, where insurgent groups had intensified their operations. In such circumstances, he argued, political rhetoric that questioned the credibility or intentions of the armed forces weakened the state.
Bugti’s statement followed a recent briefing by the ISPR, during which the spokesperson criticised Imran Khan for alleged attempts to create divisions between the military and the public. The PTI responded by condemning the language used in the briefing and accused the military of politicising internal disputes.
Bugti, however, insisted that the public stood firmly with the armed forces. “The people of Balochistan have been with their forces and will continue to be,” he said, urging political actors to reject narratives that “weakened the state.” He argued that personal political goals must not overshadow national security concerns.
Referring to Imran, he drew a contrast between the sacrifices of military personnel and the lifestyle of political leaders. “Every day the army’s captains, majors, and colonels are sacrificing their lives for our future,” he said, questioning why political figures would “malign” the institution at such a critical time.
Bugti also stressed that criticism of the armed forces played into the hands of foreign intelligence agencies seeking to destabilise Pakistan. He described such rhetoric as damaging and warned against becoming part of “an agenda driven from outside.”
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His remarks were echoed by other government figures, including Railways Minister Hanif Abbasi, who accused Imran of receiving foreign funding and posing a threat to national security. He argued that earlier action against the PTI leadership could have prevented what he described as rising “anarchy” and “terrorism.”
“The Pakistan Army is a professional, disciplined, and patriotic institution that has stood as the shield of this nation, from fighting terrorism to defending territorial sovereignty,” Ahsan Iqbal wrote.https://t.co/OPx19KTJy2
— Dawn.com (@dawn_com) December 7, 2025
The PTI rejected these accusations, stating that Imran Khan had consistently defended Pakistan at international forums and strengthened the country’s diplomatic and military position. The party said the government was attempting to portray dissent as anti-state behaviour.
Bugti concluded by urging political leaders to prioritise state stability over political rivalry, warning that undermining national institutions could have long-term consequences.
