What’s Going On? Pakistan’s Maj Gen Ahmed Sharif Winks at Journalist; Video Sparks Uproar

Islamabad: Pakistan Army's media chief Lieutenant General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhary is facing criticism across the country for his statement given in a press briefing. Responding to a question on jailed former Prime Minister Imran Khan, Chaudhary called him a "mental patient" and, after the comment, smiled and winked at the journalist. This video spread rapidly on social media, and many people are calling it a sign of weakening of democratic processes on the part of the army.

What sparked the controversy?

Journalist Absa Koman asked during the briefing how the allegations against Imran Khan—such as threats to national security, anti-state activities, and acting at the behest of foreign countries—are different from the past and whether a new situation could arise in the future. Responding, Lieutenant General Chaudhary said, “Add a fourth thing… he is also a mental patient.” As soon as he said this, he winked at the journalist. This gesture of his made the comment more controversial.

What are the reactions on social media?

Pakistanis reacted sharply on social media. Many users on “X” wrote that this incident happened in front of open cameras, and it is clear that democracy in the country has weakened. Someone called it the “meme of the nation,” while someone called the prime minister a “puppet.”

Growing tension in relations between army and Imran Khan

This comment has come at a time when Imran Khan himself has recently targeted Army Chief General Asim Munir. He had called Munir “mentally unstable” on social media and alleged that he was harming law and order in Pakistan. Even before this, without taking the name of Lieutenant General Chaudhary Khan, he had been called a “narcissistic person.” In the same statement, he said that Khan's politics had now reached a level where he believed, "If I am not in power, then no one else should be in power."

Chaudhary also alleged that Imran Khan is trying to instigate people against the army. He warned that “we will not allow anyone to create distance between the Pakistani army and the people.” He also said that there are limits to constitutional rights, especially when the question of national security is at stake.

Old allegations resurfaced

Referring to the attacks on army bases, especially the Rawalpindi headquarters, on May 9, 2023, Chaudhary said that Khan had played a role in these incidents as well. Imran Khan has always rejected these allegations.