Defence Minister Khawaja Asif said on Saturday that former DG Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) Faiz Hameed is facing additional charges, which will be pursued through legal channels after his recent sentencing.

Speaking to the media in Sialkot, Khawaja Asif claimed that a ‘project’ to launch Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan’s political campaign began nearly 12 years ago with substantial backing, including arrangements for his first major rally in Lahore, which, according to the minister, were orchestrated by “hidden hands.”

He alleged that former prime minister Nawaz Sharif was removed from power and imprisoned through a conspiracy, while Imran Khan came to power via manipulated electoral processes.

Faiz Hameed, Asif claimed, was in charge of the ‘Project Imran’ and protecting the founder’s interests.

“Together, they ruined the country, and the public knows that the founder did not fulfil his promises,” he said.

The minister further asserted that Imran Khan and Faiz Hameed were inseparable allies whose collaboration harmed the country’s interests.

According to Khawaja Asif, following his transfer, Faiz Hameed began being “exposed” and was provided facilities in his capacity as corps commander.

The minister alleged that Hameed planned the May 9 incidents, with PTI providing manpower for the unrest.

Khawaja Asif added that conspiratorial elements continue to support Imran Khan, adding that Hameed’s associates are still active.

He praised the Pakistan Army for protecting the country’s integrity and warned that had the plan of Faiz Hameed and Imran Khan succeeded, the nation’s situation could have been “dangerous.”

The minister claimed that Faiz and Imran failed to handle pressure over the arrest of Indian pilot Abhinandan.

The minister stressed that accountability for anti-national activities would continue, whether the individuals involved wore a uniform or civilian clothes.

He noted that Faiz Hameed retains the right to appeal his sentence before a military court, the Army Chief, and the High Court.

Khawaja Asif also warned that elements aligned with Hameed and Imran Khan remain active within the country, impacting national security, while tensions along the western border are exacerbated by India.

He accused PTI leadership of providing “protection” to the Taliban and claimed that Faiz Hameed facilitated their support to bolster Imran Khan.

Earlier, Senator Faisal Vawda had stated in a television talk show that after receiving 14 years of rigorous punishment from a military court, former ISI chief Faiz Hameed would now give evidence against Imran Khan.

Vawda said the testimony would relate to the May 9 incidents and other significant actions, adding it would be crucial to hold other PTI leaders and involved individuals accountable in court.

Highlighting Hameed’s role, Vawda said he had facilitated access to internal installations for the PTI protesters.

Responding to a question, Vawda stated that the 14-year sentence would not be reduced.