LAHORE: PTI chairman Imran Khan declared on Saturday that his fight for "true freedom" has entered its "final phase," and he announced plans to hold anti-government rallies across the country.
The former prime minister spoke at the National Hockey Stadium, where the party marked the 75th anniversary of Pakistan's independence with fireworks and traditional songs.
The PTI chairman stated in his address that he has decided to "go to the people," beginning with Rawalpindi and moving on to Karachi, Sukkur, Hyderabad, Islamabad, Peshawar, Mardan, Attock, Abbottabad, Multan, Bahawalpur, Sargodha, Jhelum, Gujrat, Faisalabad, Gujranwala, and Quetta.
"I am coming out and to the people as the fight for true independence has entered its decisive phase [...] my nation, be ready," said the PTI chairman.
The new 'Tiger Force'
Khan also announced the formation of a new "Tiger Force," claiming that it will work for "independence" in the same way that the people did before partition.
"I am telling my nation to be prepared; you must go door-to-door informing the people of my message of independence. Tell them they have nothing to be afraid of."
The government, Khan claimed, would try to frighten PTI supporters, but he told them that if their "captain" isn't afraid of anything, they shouldn't be either.
During the coronavirus pandemic, when strict lockdowns were in place, the PTI chairman established a "Tiger Force" to keep a check on the hoarding of edible goods and other items.
'I'm not anti-America.'
Khan reiterated that he is not "anti-America" and wishes to have a friendly relationship with the US, saying that he only wants to look after the country's interests.
"I am more familiar with America and the United Kingdom than the majority of Pakistanis [...] I understand their psychology; if you beg them, they will take advantage of you "ex-premier stated
The PTI chairman went on to say that he has never bowed before anyone and will not do so in the future.
Khan, who was removed from the prime ministership in April, has blamed his removal on the US and the coalition government; however, the US and ruling parties have denied that there was any conspiracy involved in his removal.
'Money' does not buy respect.
The ousted prime minister stated at the outset of his speech that Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah freed the nation from British slavery and refused to leave them in Hindu slavery.
"He (Quaid) noted that Muslims have always lived as an independent nation [...] he also clarified that Muslims want a sovereign state," said the PTI chairman.
Khan also stated that he wants a sovereign Pakistan and has vowed not to beg any foreign power.
The PTI chairman noted that his political opponents have been disparaging him for the last 26 years, but he told them that respect isn't earned through "money" — and that the nation still supports him despite their efforts.
