Imran Khan’s Ex-Secretary Azam Khan Unravels ‘Cypher Gate’ as Premeditated Conspiracy
Former Prime Minister Imran Khan’s ex-principal secretary, Azam Khan, has unveiled a statement terming the infamous ‘cypher gate’ as a premeditated conspiracy used by the ex-PM to create a narrative against the establishment and opposition. This revelation comes after Azam recorded his statement under CrPC 164 before a magistrate, raising eyebrows about the alleged plot behind Imran Khan’s removal from office.
The Confession and Imran Khan’s Reaction:
In his statement, Azam claimed that when he shared the cypher with Imran Khan, the former premier was “euphoric” and termed the language as a “US blunder”. According to Azam, Imran Khan suggested using the cypher to create a narrative against the establishment and opposition, thereby diverting the public’s attention towards “foreign involvement” in the opposition’s no-confidence motion. Imran planned to display the cypher in public, presenting it as evidence of a foreign conspiracy with local partners, effectively playing the victim card.
Imran’s Missing Secretary:
Notably, Azam Khan has been “missing” since the previous month, and his whereabouts remain unknown. The fact that he recorded this statement under CrPC 164 adds intrigue to the situation, leaving questions about his sudden disappearance unanswered.
The ‘Cable Gate’ Controversy:
The ‘cypher gate’ controversy erupted on March 27, 2022, when Imran Khan brandished a letter, claiming it was a cypher from a foreign nation, advocating his government’s removal from power. While he did not disclose its contents or name the nation that sent it initially, he later accused the United States of orchestrating the plan and implicating Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asia Affairs Donald Lu in the matter.
NSC’s Involvement and Audio Leaks:
The National Security Committee (NSC) addressed the matter and issued a “strong demarche” against the alleged foreign interference in Pakistan’s internal affairs. However, after Imran Khan’s removal, the NSC convened again and found no evidence of a foreign conspiracy. Subsequently, two audio leaks emerged featuring conversations allegedly involving Imran Khan, then-federal minister Asad Umar, and Azam Khan discussing the US cypher and how to utilize it for their benefit.
The FIA’s Investigation:
The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) took notice of the audio leaks and initiated an investigation against Imran Khan and other leaders of the party. Khan challenged the FIA’s summons but, as of July 18, the Lahore High Court recalled the stay order against the call-up notice, allowing the investigation to proceed.
Conclusion:
As the ‘cypher gate’ saga unfolds, Azam Khan’s confession adds new dimensions to the controversy surrounding Imran Khan’s removal from office. The political landscape remains tense as investigations continue, shedding light on the alleged conspiracy that continues to captivate the nation.
Published in PakWeb, July 19, 2023.
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