What Happened to Imran Khan's Former Aide in the UK?
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Synopsis
Mirza Shahzad Akbar, a key figure in Imran Khan's PTI government, was brutally assaulted in the UK, raising alarms about the safety of political dissidents. This shocking incident sheds light on a troubling trend of violence against exiled politicians.
Key Takeaways
- Mirza Shahzad Akbar was attacked in the UK, injuring him seriously.
- The incident raises alarms about the safety of political dissidents abroad.
- Akbar has a history of violence against him, including a prior acid attack.
- Political repression against dissidents is a growing concern, as highlighted by a UK report.
- The Pakistani government is actively pursuing extradition for Akbar.
Islamabad, Dec 25 (NationPress) Mirza Shahzad Akbar, the former accountability advisor in the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) government under ex-Prime Minister Imran Khan, was viciously assaulted in the United Kingdom, resulting in significant injuries described as "bruised and fractured."
Akbar, who was a Special Assistant to the Prime Minister (SAPM), has been residing in exile in the UK since April 2022.
In a series of messages to the Pakistani newspaper Dawn, Akbar confirmed the incident, stating, "I have been attacked and have been hospitalized. Bruised and fractured [sic]." This confirmation came after PTI shared news of the attack on their social media platform.
According to a post on X, the assault occurred at Akbar's residence in Cambridge. The party emphasized that the attack raises serious concerns about the safety of political dissidents living abroad.
During a press conference, Major General Ahmed Sharif, head of the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), had recently expressed disdain towards Akbar, stating he did not wish to see his face.
PTI reported that the assailant, described as being 25-30 years old, repeatedly struck Akbar in the face, causing fractures to his nose and jaw. The local police are currently investigating the incident.
This assault is not the first; Akbar faced an acid attack in November 2023 at his home in Hertfordshire. He publicly stated, "I will not be intimidated nor bow down to those who are doing this," suggesting a connection between the acid attack and the Al Qadir Trust case that involves Imran Khan.
Akbar has reported receiving threats over the past few months, warning him to change his ways or face consequences.
In April 2024, he initiated legal proceedings against the government of Pakistan in a UK court regarding the acid attack.
In a troubling development, an Islamabad court labeled Akbar a proclaimed offender for allegedly making controversial statements on social media. Following this, the Pakistani Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi met with UK High Commissioner Jane Marriott to submit extradition requests for Akbar.
A recent report from the UK Parliament's Joint Committee on Human Rights outlined a worrying trend of Transnational Repression (TNR) against dissidents, particularly in the UK, involving harassment and physical violence.
Point of View
It's crucial to acknowledge the severity of the situation involving Mirza Shahzad Akbar. The violence against political figures in exile is not just a personal tragedy; it signifies an alarming trend that threatens the safety and freedom of dissenting voices globally. This incident warrants serious attention and action to protect those who speak out.
NationPress
25/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Mirza Shahzad Akbar?
Mirza Shahzad Akbar is a former accountability advisor to Imran Khan and was a Special Assistant to the Prime Minister in the PTI government. He has been living in exile in the UK since April 2022.
What happened to Akbar in the UK?
Akbar was attacked at his home in Cambridge, resulting in serious injuries, including a fractured nose and jaw.
Why is Akbar living in the UK?
Akbar has been in exile since April 2022 due to political pressures and threats against him in Pakistan.
What is the Al Qadir Trust case?
The Al Qadir Trust case involves allegations against Imran Khan and has been a point of contention for Akbar, who suggests that the acid attack he suffered was linked to this case.
What measures are being taken regarding Akbar's safety?
The local police are investigating the attack on Akbar, and the PTI has expressed serious concerns about the safety of political dissidents in exile.
