Salman Akram Raja, central secretary general of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), has accused the state of using lethal force against PTI protestors, claiming that several party members were killed and many more remain missing.

In an interview on Aaj TV’s program “Spotlight”, Raja stated that the party will present witnesses within days to corroborate these claims.

Raja asserted that the government’s response to the protests was excessive and unjustified. He alleged that not only were protestors subjected to shelling, but live ammunition was also used, resulting in the deaths of 12 PTI members. He further stated that the party is currently compiling evidence to support these claims and will file a First Information Report (FIR) once all the necessary documentation is gathered.

The PTI leader also highlighted the plight of missing party workers, estimating their number to be between 150 and 200. He accused authorities of falsely implicating these individuals in cases related to the May 9 incidents, demanding justice for those unjustly arrested.

Raja categorically denied that PTI workers were armed, stating that they possessed nothing more than slingshots. He conceded that protestors may have retaliated by throwing stones and shells.

Regarding PTI Chairman Imran Khan’s current situation, Raja stated that Barrister Gohar had reported that Khan had agreed to a plea bargain regarding the Bani Gala residence. He expressed concern over Khan’s apparent lack of communication with the outside world, emphasizing the need for Khan’s voice to be heard. Raja also denied any rift between the party and Bushra Bibi. He dismissed reports suggesting otherwise as false.