The Rise and Fall of a Manufactured Leader

(Amanullah Khan Ayubi)




Imran Khan’s political journey has been one of contradictions. Initially launched into Pakistani politics by handlers both domestic and foreign, his path was shaped less by ideology and more by manipulation. Despite presenting himself as a leader for the Muslim Ummah, Khan struggled with basic religious practices, often displaying his lack of understanding of Islamic principles.


In the personal realm, Khan’s life has been fraught with controversy. From his denial of his daughter, Tyrian White, to the public fallout with his second wife, Reham Khan—who accused him of shocking personal behaviors—his private life often overshadowed his public persona. His third marriage to Bushra Bibi, a spiritual figure, added to the controversy, especially since it was conducted without the completion of the Islamic iddat period, raising questions of legitimacy.


Khan’s tenure as Prime Minister, secured under dubious circumstances in 2018 with the manipulation of the RTS system, brought lofty promises but few results. He vowed to plant 10 billion trees, open 50 universities, and overhaul foreign policy. Instead, his government closed universities, left tourism in disarray, and failed to deliver any significant economic relief. Relations with key allies like Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and China deteriorated under his leadership.


Bushra Bibi’s alleged involvement in sinister acts, including accusations of dark rituals, further stained the party’s reputation. The mismanagement peaked on May 9, 2023, when violent protests erupted, damaging Pakistan’s institutions. Most recently, Khan’s party called for a long march led by Bushra Bibi, demanding his release and exoneration. This march ended in chaos, with law enforcement thwarting an alleged infiltration of militants.


Imran Khan’s narrative, initially crafted as a tale of hope and transformation, now lies in ruins. His inability to govern effectively, coupled with personal scandals and reckless decisions, has left Pakistan grappling with the consequences of misplaced faith in a leader who could not rise to the occasion.