Civil Disobedience: Imran Khan's New Gamble Or Last Political Card?

Khan warned that if these demands are not met by December 13, he will announce the launch of a civil disobedience movement on December 14. As part of the campaign, he plans to urge overseas Pakistanis to restrict remittances and initiate a boycott movement. A five-member committee has already been formed to oversee this initiative.

The success of this movement hinges largely on the response of overseas Pakistanis, who contribute significantly to Pakistan's economy. In interviews conducted by TNN, their reactions were mixed.

• Furqan Hameed , a 30-year-old manager with a multinational firm in Colombo, Sri Lanka, stated:
  “I admire Imran Khan, but my priority is my family. I will not support this campaign and will continue sending funds to my family through legal channels.”
• Asif Iqbal , a director at a five-star hotel in Dubai, hinted at partial support:
  “While we send remittances legally, this benefits the Pakistani government. If Khan calls for civil disobedience, we might resort to informal methods like hawala and hundi, ensuring our families still receive funds without aiding the government.”
• Rauf Yusufzai , a journalist from Peshawar residing in Missouri, USA, expressed his reservations:
  “If the movement were focused on constitutional supremacy, parliamentary sovereignty, human rights, and justice for smaller provinces, I would support it. But this campaign revolves solely around Imran Khan's personality, which I cannot endorse.”
• Sarfaraz Ahmed , a 28-year-old CCTV operator in London, noted:
  “During our discussions, many Pakistanis here have decided to stop sending remittances through official channels. Alternatives like hawala, hundi, or direct exchanges with local students are being considered.”

The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) is reportedly aware of the potential rise in illegal money transfers if Khan's movement gains momentum. A media representative from the FIA revealed anonymously that high-level meetings are already discussing strategies to counteract such activities. Crackdowns on hawala and hundi operators may intensify in the coming days.

• Maria Memon , senior journalist and anchor, pointed out that Khan's previous civil disobedience campaign in 2014 failed despite institutional backing. She questioned the lack of a coherent strategy this time around, stating:
  “Encouraging overseas Pakistanis to send money illegally will not sit well with international stakeholders like the IMF, which demands transparency in financial dealings.”
• Ajmal Jami , another senior journalist, viewed this move as a pressure tactic:
  “Khan's civil disobedience call appears to be a strategy to push the government into meeting his demands. However, it lacks feasibility and actionable steps.”
• Professor Tahir Malik , an expert in international affairs, highlighted historical parallels:
  “Even Gandhi's famed civil disobedience campaign against British rule in 1930 struggled to achieve its goals. Politicians must understand the difference between challenging a government and harming state institutions.”

While some analysts, like Maria Memon, believe Khan still holds multiple political cards, others argue his strategy lacks the sophistication required for long-term success.“Khan's political maneuvers often defy conventional tactics, but this campaign risks alienating key stakeholders,” noted Ajmal Jami.

Despite growing political unrest, experts agree that ousting the Shehbaz government remains unlikely as long as the establishment continues its support. However, this movement could further strain the already fragile political landscape.

As Pakistan braces for another turbulent phase, only time will reveal whether Imran Khan's civil disobedience call is a strategic masterstroke or a miscalculation in his political career.

MENAFN10122024000189011041ID1108975927