Senior politician Javed Hashmi, who has held key positions in both the Pakistan Muslim League (N) and Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI),said on Wednesday that Pakistan has been under martial law for the past 76 years, with only the forms of governance changing. He alleges that the establishment has always been in control, and true martial law has never been lifted.

Hashmi, who has been absent from the public eye for a considerable time, made these remarks during an appearance on the news program Spot Light on Aaj News.

Commenting on recent arrests from parliament, Hashmi expressed his disappointment, stating that the sanctity of parliament has been compromised. He recounted his own experience of being arrested from his parliamentary lodge, with his bedroom window being broken, and being kept blindfolded for eight days before being sentenced to 23 years.

He described the recent actions as the worst form of terrorism, arguing that the sanctity of parliament should be upheld, and orders from the Supreme Court and the Speaker should be respected. He criticized the Speaker’s actions, stating that he should have taken stronger steps to ensure justice was served, including filing an FIR and seeking stricter penalties.

Hashmi said he believes that the Speaker’s actions have set a dangerous precedent, as it implies that anyone can be arrested within the confines of parliament. He warned that this could lead to the arrest of the Prime Minister during a parliamentary session.

He suggested a committee comprising Imran Khan and Nawaz Sharif to address the current political crisis, and to decide on a strategy to oppose any actions that go against the constitution or the parliament. Hashmi believes that Nawaz Sharif would not hesitate to fight back, as he feels he has been unfairly treated.

Regarding Imran Khan’s accountability, Hashmi stated that it would definitely happen, possibly through General Faiz, and that it could happen to anyone.

Hashmi recalled a meeting with Imran Khan in 2014, after the latter had met with General Raheel Sharif and received assurances that four constituencies would be opened.

Hashmi advised Khan to capitalize on this victory, but Khan refused, stating that his supporters were not ready. Hashmi believes this was a mistake, as Khan could have garnered international support and gained a significant advantage.

Hashmi added that the recent elections have delivered a clear verdict, and that attempting to negotiate with Nawaz Sharif and Zardari would not yield positive results. He believes that Imran Khan would agree to such negotiations but that it would ultimately be futile.