Islamabad (National Times) Imran Khan, the founding leader of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), has warned of a nationwide protest movement if any attempts were made to undermine the authority of the Supreme Court.

Speaking informally with journalists at Adiala Jail after attending a hearing in the 190 million pound reference case, Imran criticised efforts to weaken national institutions, stating, “The institution belongs to everyone, not just the army chief.”

Imran expressed concern over the appointment of “corrupt and incompetent individuals” to key positions, arguing that such decisions were damaging the nation.

He cited the Pakistan cricket team’s recent whitewash by Bangladesh as an example, blaming poor leadership and appointments for the decline of the sport.

He also raised concerns about delayed court rulings, particularly regarding the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) amendments, which he believes are being postponed until a verdict is reached in his reference case.

The PTI founder pointed out that several high-profile cases involving former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif and incumbent Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, along with President Asif Zardari, are stalled due to the pending NAB ruling.

Imran Khan further alleged that there were attempts to close down the Al-Qadir University, stressing that while it would not affect him personally, the closure of Shaukat Khanum Hospital would greatly impact the public.

The former prime minister reiterated that the Supreme Court remains one of the last institutions representing the country’s integrity, and any effort to destroy it would be met with nationwide protests.