Imran Khan is a prominent Pakistani politician and former cricketer. He served as Pakistan's Prime Minister from 2018 to 2022. Before entering politics, he captained Pakistan's national cricket team in the 1980s and early 1990s. He founded the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) political party in 1996 and led it until 2023.
1947: Partition of India and Pakistan
The 1947 partition significantly shaped Imran Khan's early views on India, marked by bloodshed and anger. This event deeply impacted his perspective on the region's history and future.
October 1952: Birth of Imran Khan
Imran Khan was born in Lahore, Pakistan in October 1952, into a family with a strong connection to cricket.
October 1952: Birth of Imran Khan
Imran Khan was born in Lahore, Pakistan in October 1952.
November 1952: Dispute Over Birth Date
There is a discrepancy regarding Imran Khan's birth date, with some reports suggesting he was born on 25 November 1952.
1969: Early Cricket Career
Imran Khan began his cricket journey in Lahore at the age of 16, playing for various local teams, including Lahore A and Lahore B.
1970: Surpassing Bhutto's Electoral Record
Imran Khan became the first person in Pakistan's electoral history to win in all five constituencies contested, surpassing Zulfikar Ali Bhutto's record of winning in three out of four constituencies in 1970.
1970: Continued Cricket in Lahore
Imran Khan's cricket career continued in Lahore, playing for teams such as Lahore A, Lahore B, and Lahore Greens.
June 1971: Test Cricket Debut
Imran Khan debuted in Test cricket, playing against England at Edgbaston in June 1971.
1971: Joining Lahore and County Cricket
Imran Khan played for the Lahore cricket team and started his journey in English county cricket with Worcestershire.
1971: International Cricket Debut
Imran Khan's international cricket career commenced in 1971 with a Test series against England.
1971: Imran Khan on the 1971 Bangladesh War
Imran Khan has consistently termed the 1971 Bangladesh Liberation War a "blunder." He drew parallels between the 1971 atrocities and the treatment of Pashtuns during the war on terror.
1972: Enrollment at Keble College, Oxford
Imran Khan enrolled at Keble College, Oxford, in 1972 to study philosophy, politics, and economics.
1973: Oxford University Cricket
Imran Khan joined the Oxford University Blues Cricket team, marking a significant step in his career.
August 1974: One Day International Debut
Imran Khan made his One Day International (ODI) debut in August 1974 against England at Trent Bridge.
1975: Alleged Relationship with Benazir Bhutto
According to a book published in 2009, Imran Khan and Benazir Bhutto were allegedly in a relationship in 1975 while studying at Oxford.
1975: Graduation from Oxford
Imran Khan graduated from Keble College, Oxford, in 1975.
1976: Return to Pakistan's National Team
After completing his studies and county cricket, Imran Khan returned to Pakistan, securing a permanent spot on the national team for the 1976-1977 season.
1976: Return to Pakistan and County Cricket
Imran Khan returned to Pakistan and secured a permanent position on the national team. He also continued playing county cricket.
1977: Facing New Zealand and Australia
Imran Khan, as part of Pakistan's national cricket team, faced New Zealand and Australia during the 1976-1977 season.
1978: Fast Bowling Prowess and Reverse Swing
Imran Khan established himself as one of the fastest bowlers, ranking third in a speed test in Perth. He also started pioneering the reverse swing bowling technique.
1979: Iranian Revolution's Impact
Imran Khan discussed the profound impact of the 1979 Iranian Revolution on Pakistan in his book "Main Aur Mera Pakistan".
January 1980: Prime as a Fast Bowler
From January 1980, Imran Khan entered his prime as a fast bowler, a period that lasted until 1988, during which he achieved remarkable feats in Test cricket.
1980: Continued Representation of Pakistani Teams
Imran Khan continued representing Pakistan International Airlines in domestic cricket.
1981: Ball Tampering Admission
After retiring, Imran Khan confessed to ball tampering during his initial cricketing years while playing domestic cricket. He admitted to occasionally altering the condition of the ball to gain an advantage. In 1981, while playing for Sussex against Hampshire, he even resorted to using a bottle top to further alter the ball's behavior, highlighting the controversial tactics employed during that era.
1981: Continued Representation of Pakistani Teams
Imran Khan's career with Pakistan International Airlines in domestic cricket continued.
1982: Captaincy of Pakistan Cricket Team
At 30 years old, Imran Khan took on the captaincy of the Pakistan cricket team, succeeding Javed Miandad. His leadership led to significant victories and marked a turning point in his career.
1982: Relationship with Emma Sergeant
Imran Khan began a relationship with artist Emma Sergeant in 1982.
1982: Exceptional Performance Against England
Imran Khan delivered an outstanding all-round performance against England, excelling in both batting and bowling, solidifying his reputation as a top-class cricketer.
1982: Captaincy of Pakistan Cricket Team
Imran Khan's tenure as captain of the Pakistan national cricket team began in 1982.
January 1983: Exceptional Bowling Performance and Ranking
In January 1983, during a match against India, Imran Khan achieved a Test bowling rating of 922 points, placing him among the top bowlers in the sport's history.
1983: Joining Sussex
Imran Khan joined the Sussex county cricket club.
1983: Dominance Against India and Injury
Imran Khan showcased his bowling prowess against India, taking 40 wickets in six Tests. However, he suffered a stress fracture in his shin, leading to a two-year break from cricket.
1984: Recovery and Comeback
With the help of experimental treatment, Imran Khan recovered from his shin injury and made a successful comeback to international cricket.
1985: Return to Form
Imran Khan continued to regain his form and make significant contributions to the Pakistan cricket team, demonstrating resilience and determination.
1986: End of Relationship with Emma Sergeant
Imran Khan's relationship with Emma Sergeant ended in 1986.
1987: Pakistan's Historic Cricket Victories
In 1987, Imran Khan led the Pakistani cricket team to its first-ever Test series win against India and followed it up with Pakistan's inaugural series victory in England. The team also secured three commendable draws against the West Indies during the 1980s.
1987: President Zia Offers Political Position to Imran Khan
In 1987, President Muhammad Zia-ul-Haq offered Imran Khan a political role in the Pakistan Muslim League (PML), which Khan politely declined. This signifies early attempts to draw him into politics.
1988: End of Tenure with Sussex
Imran Khan concluded his playing tenure with the Sussex county cricket club.
1988: Continued Dominance as a Bowler
Imran Khan maintained his dominance as a fast bowler until 1988, consistently delivering exceptional performances and cementing his legacy in the sport.
1988: Man of the Series in West Indies
Imran Khan's return to captaincy saw him lead Pakistan to another successful tour, this time in the West Indies, a period he later described as his last stint of prime bowling form. His performance in 1988, where he took 23 wickets in 3 Test matches, earned him the Man of the Series award against the West Indies.
1988: Return to Cricket Captaincy
On January 18, 1988, Imran Khan announced his decision to rejoin the Pakistan cricket team as captain, having been asked to return by President General Zia-Ul-Haq.
1990: Bollywood Movie Offer
Imran Khan's popularity in India during the 1990s led to a Bollywood movie offer from veteran actor Dev Anand for his film "Awwal Number". Khan declined the role, which ultimately went to Aditya Pancholi.
1990: Blasphemy Laws in Pakistan
Since 1990, blasphemy accusations in Pakistan have led to mob violence and targeted attacks, resulting in at least 78 deaths. This highlights the sensitivity surrounding blasphemy in the country.
1991: Establishment of Shaukat Khanum Memorial Trust
Imran Khan's dedication to philanthropy came to the fore in 1991 when he founded the Shaukat Khanum Memorial Trust, a charitable organization named after his mother. His first major project under the Trust was the establishment of Pakistan's first-ever cancer hospital, a groundbreaking initiative that he realized through global fundraising efforts, collecting over $25 million.
June 1992: Birth of Tyrian Jade White
Tyrian Jade White, Imran Khan's alleged daughter with Sita White, was born in June 1992.
1992: Leading Pakistan to World Cup Glory
In 1992, Imran Khan achieved what is widely considered the pinnacle of his career, captaining Pakistan to victory in the Cricket World Cup. Despite a fragile batting line-up, Khan strategically placed himself higher in the batting order alongside Javed Miandad, while his contributions as a bowler were limited. At 39, he took the winning wicket in the final, marking a historic moment in Pakistan's cricketing journey.
1992: Cricket Commentary Career Begins
Imran Khan's post-retirement career included becoming a respected voice in cricket commentary. He began providing insightful analysis for every Cricket World Cup since 1992, offering valuable perspectives on the game.
1992: Cricket World Cup Victory and Retirement
Imran Khan led Pakistan to victory in the 1992 Cricket World Cup, marking the end of his playing career.
1992: 1992 Cricket World Cup Victory
Imran Khan captained the Pakistan cricket team to victory in the 1992 Cricket World Cup, a historic moment that solidified his legacy as a cricketing legend.
1993: Imran Khan Appointed Ambassador for Tourism
Imran Khan briefly served as the Ambassador for Tourism in Moeenuddin Ahmad Qureshi's caretaker government in 1993. This appointment provided early exposure to government affairs.
1994: Imran Khan Joins Jamiat-e-Pasban
In 1994, Imran Khan joined Jamiat-e-Pasban, a faction that split from Jamaat-e-Islami, led by Hamid Gul and Muhammad Ali Durrani. This political move demonstrated his growing engagement in Pakistani politics.
May 1995: Marriage to Jemima Goldsmith
In May 1995, Imran Khan married Jemima Goldsmith in a ceremony in Paris. They had a second ceremony the following month in England. Jemima converted to Islam after their marriage.
April 1996: Imran Khan Founds Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI)
On April 25, 1996, Imran Khan established his political party, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI). This marked a pivotal step in his transition from a celebrated cricketer to a political leader.
1996: Founding of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI)
Imran Khan established the political party, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) in 1996.
1996: Entry into Politics
Imran Khan stepped into the realm of politics in 1996, marking a significant turning point in his life from a celebrated cricketer to a political figure.
1996: Libel Case Victory
In 1996, Imran Khan emerged victorious in a libel case brought against him by former English cricketers Ian Botham and Allan Lamb. The lawsuit stemmed from comments Khan made about ball-tampering, which he argued were taken out of context. The judge deemed the case futile, and the jury's decision in favor of Khan vindicated his stance.
1997: Anti Terrorism Act 1997
The Anti Terrorism Act of 1997 provided the legal framework for the ban on Jamaat-ud-Dawa in 2019.
1997: Imran Khan Contests General Election
Imran Khan ran for the National Assembly of Pakistan in the 1997 general election as a PTI candidate but was unsuccessful. He contested from two constituencies: NA-53 (Mianwali) and NA-94 (Lahore).
1997: Paternity Case and Legal Declaration
A California court declared Imran Khan as the father of Tyrian White in 1997, following legal actions.
March 1999: Nawaz Sharif's Visit to Moscow Marks Last Visit by a Pakistani Prime Minister for Over Two Decades
Prior to Khan's visit in February 2022, the last time a Pakistani Prime Minister had visited Moscow was in March 1999, when Nawaz Sharif made the trip.
1999: BBC Cricket World Cup Analyst
During the 1999 Cricket World Cup, Imran Khan's commentary expertise was sought out by the BBC, where he delivered match summaries and expert opinions to a global audience.
1999: Imran Khan Supports General Musharraf's Coup
Imran Khan supported General Pervez Musharraf's military coup in 1999, believing it would eliminate corruption. He reportedly declined Musharraf's offer to become Prime Minister in 2002.
October 2002: Imran Khan Elected to Parliament
Imran Khan was elected to the National Assembly of Pakistan from Mianwali in the October 2002 general election. He was open to forming a coalition if PTI didn't secure a majority.
2002: Elected to National Assembly
Imran Khan secured a seat in the National Assembly of Pakistan in the 2002 general election.
2003: Property and Investment Holdings
In 2003, Imran Khan owned a house in Zaman Park, Lahore, valued at Rs. 29 million (US$100,000). He was also an active investor, having invested over Rs. 40 million (US$140,000) in various businesses. He possessed agricultural land in Talhar, Islamabad, and Khanewal and inherited a share in additional agricultural land.
June 2004: Divorce from Jemima Goldsmith
In June 2004, Imran Khan and Jemima Goldsmith announced their divorce after nine years of marriage. The reason given was the difficulty Jemima faced adapting to life in Pakistan.
2004: Death of Sita White and Guardianship of Tyrian
After Sita White's death in 2004, Jemima Khan, Imran Khan's wife at the time, became Tyrian's legal guardian.
2004: Commentator for India-Pakistan Series
Imran Khan's commentary career continued to flourish as he became a commentator on TEN Sports' 'Straight Drive' during the historic return of the Indian cricket team's tour of Pakistan in 2004 after a 14-year hiatus.
May 2005: Imran Khan's Role in Highlighting Alleged Quran Desecration
In May 2005, The New Yorker recognized Imran Khan for raising awareness about the alleged desecration of the Quran at Guantanamo Bay. This incident sparked outrage in the Muslim world.
November 2005: University of Bradford Chancellorship
Imran Khan's influence extended beyond the world of sports when he was appointed chancellor of the University of Bradford in November 2005, succeeding Betty Lockwood.
December 2005: Namal College Partnership with University of Bradford
In December 2005, Namal College, founded by Imran Khan, entered into a partnership with the University of Bradford, solidifying its commitment to providing quality education and enhancing academic opportunities for students in the Mianwali District.
2005: "Miserable Politician" Label
In 2005, Declan Walsh, writing for The Guardian, labeled Imran Khan a "miserable politician", criticizing his shifting political stances since entering politics in 1996.
June 2007: Imran Khan Faces Political Opposition
By June 2007, Imran Khan faced increasing opposition from political rivals both within and outside the parliament. This period marked growing challenges to his political aspirations.
October 2007: Imran Khan Resigns from Parliament in Protest
As part of the All Parties Democratic Movement, Imran Khan resigned from Parliament in October 2007. This protest targeted the presidential election, where General Musharraf was a candidate without relinquishing his military role.
November 2007: Imran Khan Placed Under House Arrest and Later Arrested
In November 2007, following the declaration of a state of emergency in Pakistan by President Musharraf, Imran Khan was placed under house arrest. After escaping and subsequently participating in a student protest, he was arrested and briefly jailed.
2007: Completion of Term as Opposition Member
Imran Khan completed his term as an opposition member of the National Assembly in 2007.
April 2008: Founding of Namal College
On April 27, 2008, Imran Khan established Namal College, a technical college in the Mianwali District, further demonstrating his commitment to education and development in Pakistan. The college was built under the Mianwali Development Trust (MDT) and formed an association with the University of Bradford in December 2005, expanding educational opportunities in the region.
2008: PTI Boycotts General Election
Imran Khan's party, PTI, boycotted the 2008 general election.
2008: Editing Revelations for "Indus Journey"
In 2008, details emerged about the extensive editing required for Imran Khan's second book, "Indus Journey: A Personal View of Pakistan", raising questions about his writing process.
2008: 2008 Mumbai Attacks
The 2008 Mumbai attacks, masterminded by Hafiz Saeed, were a significant event that had implications for Pakistan's international standing.
2009: Claims of Relationship with Benazir Bhutto
A book published in 2009 alleged a close relationship between Imran Khan and Benazir Bhutto during their time as students at Oxford in the 1970s. However, Khan maintained they were just friends.
2010: Release of "Kaptaan: The Making of a Legend"
A biographical film titled "Kaptaan: The Making of a Legend" was released in 2010, chronicling Imran Khan's life, cricketing journey, personal challenges, and philanthropic endeavors, including his triumph in the 1992 Cricket World Cup.
2010: Imran Khan on India-Pakistan Relations and Kashmir
In 2010, Imran Khan expressed evolving views on India, acknowledging the impact of the 1947 partition on his early perceptions. He emphasized the Kashmir issue as a humanitarian concern, advocating for dialogue and rejecting military solutions.
2010: Absence from Graduation Ceremonies
Starting in 2010, Imran Khan faced criticism for his absence from every graduation ceremony at the University of Bradford, leading to a motion being floated by the university's student union in February 2014 to have him removed from the position.
October 2011: Imran Khan Addresses Supporters in Lahore
In October 2011, Imran Khan addressed a massive rally in Lahore, criticizing government policies and characterizing the growing support for change as a "tsunami." This event signaled his rising political influence.
December 2011: Imran Khan Holds Rally in Karachi
Imran Khan held a large public gathering in Karachi in December 2011, further consolidating his position as a significant political contender. His rallies drew massive crowds, reflecting his increasing popularity.
2011: Khan and Sharif's Rivalry Intensifies
Imran Khan and Nawaz Sharif's political rivalry escalated in 2011, marked by Khan's address to a large crowd at Minar-e-Pakistan in Lahore.
2011: Khan Characterized as Underdog and Pro-Democracy Liberal
Richard Leiby, writing for The Washington Post in 2011, described Imran Khan as an underdog and a pro-democracy liberal despite his association with conservative Islamist parties.
2011: Capture of Osama bin Laden
The capture of Osama bin Laden in Abbottabad in 2011 was a major event that Imran Khan included in his historical account in "Main Aur Mera Pakistan".
March 2012: Criticism from Salman Rushdie
In March 2012, Salman Rushdie criticized Imran Khan for declining to attend the India Today Conference due to Rushdie's presence. Khan justified his refusal based on the offense caused to Muslims worldwide by Rushdie's writings, leading Rushdie to label him a "dictator in waiting."
August 2012: Pakistani Taliban Threatens Imran Khan
In August 2012, the Pakistani Taliban issued death threats against Imran Khan due to his planned protest against US drone attacks and his self-identification as a "liberal."
October 2012: Protest Against Drone Strikes
In October 2012, Imran Khan participated in a protest caravan traveling from Islamabad to South Waziristan to condemn US drone missile strikes in the region.
October 2012: Pakistani Taliban Reverses Stance, Offers Protection to Imran Khan
In a turn of events, in October 2012, senior Pakistani Taliban commanders, after a meeting, decided to offer security assistance to Imran Khan for his rally. This reversal came after appreciating Khan's opposition to drone attacks in Pakistan.
2012: Characterisation of Khan's Political Identity
In 2012, Pankaj Mishra, writing for The New York Times, portrayed Imran Khan as a representation of Pakistan's conflicting identities. He highlighted the criticism Khan faced for his contrasting appeal to both socially liberal, upper-middle-class Pakistanis and conservative residents of tribal areas.
March 2013: Introduction of Naya Pakistan Resolution
Imran Khan launched the Naya Pakistan Resolution as part of his election campaign in March 2013, outlining his vision for a new Pakistan.
April 2013: Final Campaign Push for 2013 Election
Imran Khan initiated his final public campaign for the 2013 general election in April 2013, promising to withdraw Pakistan from the US-led war on terror and establish a uniform education system.
April 2013: PTI Emerges as Main Opposition Party
In April 2013, The Observer recognized Imran Khan's party, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), as the primary opposition to the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N).
May 2013: PTI Forms Government in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa
Following the May 2013 elections, Imran Khan's PTI formed the provincial government in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
May 2013: Analysis of Khan's Support Base
Following the May 2013 elections, Mohammed Hanif, writing for The Guardian, described Imran Khan's appeal as resonating with the educated middle classes. However, he noted that this demographic was insufficient to address Pakistan's main challenges.
July 2013: Contempt of Court Notice
Imran Khan faced a contempt of court notice in July 2013 for his criticism of the judiciary's role in the May 2013 elections. The notice was later discharged.
November 2013: Dismissal of Ministers and Alliance Termination
In November 2013, Imran Khan ordered the dismissal of two ministers from the Qaumi Watan Party (QWP) over corruption allegations and ended the PTI's alliance with the QWP.
2013: Agreement for Judicial Commission
Following the protests, Imran Khan and the Sharif administration agreed to establish a judicial commission to investigate the 2013 election rigging allegations.
2013: 2013 Pakistani General Election
Despite a strong showing, Imran Khan's PTI emerged as the second-largest party in the 2013 Pakistani general election, securing 30 parliamentary seats. The PML-N won a majority.
2013: PTI Emerges as Second-Largest Party
PTI, under Imran Khan's leadership, gained significant popularity, becoming the second-largest party by popular vote in the 2013 general election.
February 2014: Motion to Remove Khan as Chancellor
In February 2014, the University of Bradford Union formally proposed a motion to remove Imran Khan from his position as chancellor due to his continued absence from graduation ceremonies, sparking a debate about his commitment to the role.
May 2014: Allegations of Election Rigging
Imran Khan claimed that the 2013 general elections were rigged in favor of the PML-N, demanding an investigation.
August 2014: Lahore to Islamabad Rally and Protests
Imran Khan led a rally from Lahore to Islamabad in August 2014, demanding Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif's resignation over alleged electoral fraud. The rally faced resistance and violence.
September 2014: Violence Erupts During Protests
In September 2014, protests led by Imran Khan escalated, resulting in violence and fatalities. The protests aimed to force Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif's resignation.
September 2014: Alliance with Tahir-ul-Qadri
By September 2014, Imran Khan had formed an alliance with cleric Muhammad Tahir-ul-Qadri, aiming to mobilize support for regime change.
September 2014: Concerns About Khan's Political Strategy
In September 2014, Ayesha Siddiqa, in an article for The Express Tribune, acknowledged Khan's right to change the political discourse but urged him to consider the potential consequences of his actions if he were to become prime minister.
October 2014: Marriage to Reham Khan
Although announced in January 2015, Reham Khan's autobiography reveals that her marriage to Imran Khan actually took place in October 2014.
November 2014: Resignation from Chancellorship
After a period of growing scrutiny, Imran Khan announced in November 2014 that he would be stepping down from his role as chancellor of the University of Bradford, citing his increasing involvement in Pakistani politics as the primary reason.
2014: Publication of "Main Aur Mera Pakistan"
In 2014, Imran Khan published his book "Main Aur Mera Pakistan" in Urdu and Hindi, delving into Pakistan's modern history, including the 1965 and 1971 wars with India, the impact of the 1979 Iranian Revolution, and the capture of Osama bin Laden in 2011.
2014: Imran Khan Speaks Out Against Forced Conversions
In 2014, Imran Khan condemned the Pakistani Taliban's persecution of Ismaili Muslims and the Kalash people, labeling forced conversions as "un-Islamic." He also denounced similar incidents against Hindu girls in Sindh.
January 2015: Marriage to Reham Khan
Imran Khan's marriage to British-Pakistani journalist Reham Khan was announced in January 2015. The private ceremony took place at Khan's residence in Islamabad.
October 2015: Divorce from Reham Khan
In October 2015, Imran Khan and Reham Khan announced their decision to divorce.
2015: Russia and Pakistan Sign Agreement for a 1,100 km Pipeline Project
In 2015, Russia and Pakistan reached an agreement to construct a 1,100 km pipeline with a projected capacity of 12.4 to 16 billion cubic meters. The project, partially financed by Russia, aims to address Pakistan's energy needs by importing LNG from Russia.
January 2016: Imran Khan's Diplomatic Efforts Amidst Iran-Saudi Arabia Conflict
In January 2016, Imran Khan engaged in diplomatic efforts to ease tensions between Iran and Saudi Arabia. He visited both countries' embassies in Islamabad to understand their positions following the execution of Sheikh Nimr by Saudi Arabia.
2016: Rumors of Relationship with Bushra Bibi
Rumors of a relationship between Imran Khan and Bushra Bibi first surfaced in 2016, met with denials and accusations of unethical conduct from Khan towards the media.
2017: Rumors of Relationship with Bushra Bibi
Rumors persisted throughout 2017 regarding Imran Khan's relationship with Bushra Bibi, fueled by their spiritual connection and his growing political ambitions.
2017: Property and Asset Declaration
By 2017, Imran Khan's assets included a 300-kanal mansion in Bani Gala, Islamabad, valued at Rs. 750 million (US$2.6 million), which he declared as a gift to the Election Commission of Pakistan. He also had two apartments in Islamabad, furniture, livestock, and had paid Rs. 103,763 (US$360) in taxes for that year.
January 2018: Marriage to Bushra Bibi
Despite initial denials and controversy, January 2018 marked the first of two Nikah ceremonies between Imran Khan and Bushra Bibi, shrouded in political aspirations.
February 2018: Confirmation of Marriage to Bushra Bibi
Imran Khan publicly confirmed his marriage to Bushra Bibi in February 2018, attributing their connection to a shared interest in Sufism.
May 2018: 100-Day Agenda Announcement
In May 2018, Imran Khan's party unveiled a 100-day agenda outlining plans for a potential future government, including reforms in various sectors.
June 2018: FATF Grey List and Legislative Efforts
In June 2018, the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) placed Pakistan on its grey list due to concerns over terror financing laws. The Imran Khan government undertook legislative measures to address the FATF's concerns.
July 2018: Allegations of More Children Out of Wedlock
In July 2018, Imran Khan's former wife, Reham Khan, alleged in a book that he had fathered four other children out of wedlock. The timing of the book's release, shortly before the 2018 Pakistani general election, fueled speculation about its intent.
August 2018: Imran Khan Becomes Prime Minister of Pakistan
On August 17, 2018, Imran Khan secured victory in the election and became the 22nd Prime Minister of Pakistan. He was officially sworn into office on August 18, 2018.
August 2018: Imran Khan Nominated for Prime Minister
In August 2018, PTI officially nominated Imran Khan as their candidate for Prime Minister. Following the election, he announced key appointments, including Asad Umar as Finance Minister and Imran Ismail as Governor of Sindh.
August 2018: Imran Khan Becomes Prime Minister
In August 2018, Imran Khan assumed the office of the 22nd Prime Minister of Pakistan.
2018: Marriage to Bushra Bibi and Subsequent Legal Issues
Imran Khan married Bushra Bibi in 2018. This event later led to legal complications, including a criminal complaint by Bibi's former husband, resulting in additional prison sentences and fines for Khan and Bibi.
2018: Economic Crisis and IMF Bailout
Inheriting an economic crisis marked by a twin balance of payments and debt crisis, Imran Khan's government in 2018 sought a bailout from the IMF, agreeing to implement austerity measures, increase tax collection, and depreciate the rupee.
2018: PTI Forms Coalition Government
In the 2018 general election, PTI, led by Imran Khan, emerged as the largest party and formed a coalition government.
2018: Allegations of Rigging in General Election
In 2018, Imran Khan's victory in the general elections was marred by allegations of rigging and military interference, primarily from opposition parties like Nawaz Sharif's PML-N. While these claims were refuted by the Election Commission and international observers, the controversy cast a shadow over Khan's win.
2018: Victory in 2018 General Election
Imran Khan's PTI won the 2018 Pakistani general election, securing 116 seats in the National Assembly. Khan made history by winning in all five constituencies he contested.
2018: Prime Ministership and Allegations of Misusing Position
Imran Khan served as the Prime Minister from 2018 to 2022. During this period, he was accused of misusing his position to buy and sell state gifts, leading to his arrest and sentencing in August 2023.
2018: Residence and Pets
As of 2018, Imran Khan resided at his farmhouse in Bani Gala, sharing his home with five pet dogs.
2018: Prime Ministership and Policy Initiatives
Following the 2018 Pakistani general election, Imran Khan assumed the role of Prime Minister and outlined his vision to reshape Pakistan based on the principles of its founder, Muhammad Ali Jinnah. His tenure saw efforts to stabilize the economy, including securing an IMF bailout to address a balance of payments crisis. Khan's government pursued policies designed to increase tax revenue, attract investment, and promote a shift towards renewable energy. He also introduced the Ehsaas Programme, a social safety net aimed at poverty alleviation, and launched the Plant for Pakistan initiative to expand the nation's protected areas. However, his time in office was marked by economic challenges, including rising inflation exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, and accusations of political victimization, all of which contributed to growing political instability.
March 2019: Banning of Jamaat-ud-Dawa
In March 2019, the Khan government formally banned the Hafiz Saeed-led Jamaat-ud-Dawa and its affiliate Falah-e-Insaniat Foundation under the Anti Terrorism Act 1997.
October 2019: Khan Voices Support for Turkey, Engages in Afghan Peace Process, and Outlines Stance on Israel
In October 2019, Khan expressed support for Turkey's military operation in Syria, advocated for the Afghan peace process, and reiterated Pakistan's policy of not recognizing Israel until a Palestinian state is established.
November 2019: Tax Payment Revelation
In November 2019, Pakistani media, using FBR statements, revealed Imran Khan's tax payment history. The documents showed that he paid a total of Rs. 4 million in taxes over 37 years and was exempt from paying taxes for certain years.
2019: Arrest of Hafiz Saeed
Pakistan arrested Hafiz Saeed, the mastermind of the 26/11 Mumbai attacks, in 2019.
2019: Pakistan International Airlines Reaches Breakeven
Pakistan International Airlines, under Khan's government's reforms, achieved operating profit breakeven in 2019, marking a positive step in the airline's financial performance.
2019: Launch of Anti-Corruption Campaign
Khan initiated an anti-corruption campaign in 2019, refusing to grant amnesty to politicians or their associates involved in corruption, a move that faced both support and criticism.
2019: Cabinet Reshuffle
In 2019, Prime Minister Imran Khan undertook a significant cabinet reshuffle, making changes to key ministries including Interior, Finance, Information, and Planning.
2019: Improved Business Environment
In 2019, Pakistan made significant strides in improving its business operating climate under Imran Khan's leadership. This resulted in the country climbing 28 places on the World Bank's ease of doing business index, earning recognition among the top 10 most improved nations. The positive momentum continued into 2020, albeit at a moderated pace.
2019: Time Magazine's 100 Most Influential People
Imran Khan was recognized for his global influence in 2019 when Time magazine named him as one of the 100 Most Influential People in the "Leaders" category.
January 2020: Second Phase of China-Pakistan Free Trade Agreement
In January 2020, Imran Khan's government implemented the second phase of the China–Pakistan Free Trade Agreement. This renegotiated agreement secured concessionary rates for Pakistani exports to China, marking a strategic move to diversify and strengthen economic ties beyond traditional defense and security cooperation.
February 2020: Compliance with 14 FATF Points
By February 2020, Pakistan had achieved compliance with 14 points outlined in the FATF's action plan, reflecting the government's commitment to addressing concerns related to terror financing.
June 2020: Controversy over Bin Laden Remarks
Khan faced criticism in June 2020 for referring to Osama bin Laden as a "martyr," sparking controversy both domestically and internationally.
June 2020: V-Shaped Economic Recovery
After June 2020, Pakistan witnessed a V-shaped recovery in business confidence and the expected employment index following the initial impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.
October 2020: Call to Ban Islamophobic Content
Khan urged Facebook to ban Islamophobic content in October 2020, highlighting his stance against extremism and violence targeting Muslims.
October 2020: Progress on FATF Action Plan
By October 2020, Pakistan demonstrated substantial progress in complying with the FATF's action plan, successfully addressing 21 out of 27 points. This progress was a result of collaborative efforts between Imran Khan's government and parliament.
2020: Construction Begins on Pipeline Project Between Russia and Pakistan
Construction on a 1,100 km pipeline project, a result of a 2015 agreement, commenced in 2020. The pipeline, with a capacity of 12.4 to 16 billion cubic meters, aims to transport liquid natural gas (LNG) from Russia to Pakistan.
2020: Khan Accused of Improperly Handling State Gifts
The Toshakhana case, which emerged in 2020, accused Khan of failing to disclose gifts he retained from the Toshakhana, a repository for gifts presented to government officials. This raised concerns about transparency and potential misuse of state assets.
2020: Record Tax Collection
Pakistan achieved record tax collection levels in 2019 and 2020. This success was attributed to the government's focus on raising revenue from domestic taxes rather than relying on import taxes, which had been impacted by import compression.
2020: Khan's Government Implements Economic Policies, Leading to Textile Sector Recovery
In 2020, Khan's government initiated economic policies, including offering concessionary rates on utilities and reducing electricity tariffs, to facilitate the recovery of Pakistan's textile sector. The Asian Development Bank noted this as an "economic recovery" with exports reaching pre-COVID-19 levels by the end of the year.
2020: Diamer-Bhasha Dam Construction
Construction on the Diamer-Bhasha Dam, a major renewable energy project, began in 2020 under Khan's leadership.
2020: Improvement in Balance of Payments
Pakistan witnessed a notable improvement in its balance of payments position in 2020, driven by record-high remittances. This led to a stabilization of the central bank's foreign exchange reserves. Despite the positive trend, the country grappled with a substantial debt burden accumulated from previous administrations.
February 2021: FATF Review and Continued Progress
In February 2021, the FATF acknowledged Pakistan's significant progress in implementing the action plan, with 24 out of 27 points 'largely addressed' and the remaining 3 'partially addressed'. This positive assessment underscored Pakistan's commitment to strengthening its financial systems and combating terror financing.
February 2021: Pakistan's Apparel Exports Surge Under Khan's Government
By February 2021, Pakistan saw a near double-digit growth in exports, particularly in value-added textile exports. The apparel exports to the US outperformed both India and Bangladesh.
May 2021: Khan Condemns Israeli Actions in Al-Aqsa and Reiterates Stance on Kashmir
In May 2021, Khan condemned Israeli police actions in Al-Aqsa and maintained that no talks with India on the Kashmir issue would occur without the restoration of autonomy in Indian-held Kashmir.
June 2021: Controversial Remarks on Rape Cases
In June 2021, Khan sparked outrage with his comments linking women's clothing to rape cases, drawing criticism from women's rights activists.
June 2021: FATF Review and Progress
In June 2021, the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) reviewed Pakistan's progress on combating terror financing and found that the country had largely addressed 26 out of 27 action items.
July 2021: Project Pegasus Spyware List
The Project Pegasus revelations in July 2021 included a number once used by Khan on a spyware surveillance list.
August 2021: Khan Celebrates US Departure from Afghanistan
Khan celebrated the US withdrawal from Afghanistan in August 2021, characterizing it as Afghans breaking free from "the shackles of slavery".
September 2021: Controversial Remarks at UN General Assembly
During his address at the UN General Assembly in September 2021, Imran Khan sparked outrage by linking Pashtun nationalism to support for the Afghan Taliban, leading to calls for an apology and criticism from various political groups.
December 2021: Remarks on Girls' Education in Afghanistan
At the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation's session in December 2021, Imran Khan faced backlash for stating that preventing girls' education was part of Afghan culture. His remarks drew criticism from prominent figures like Hamid Karzai and Malala Yousafzai.
2021: Taliban Takeover of Kabul and Imran Khan's Response
Following the Taliban's takeover of Kabul in 2021, Imran Khan congratulated them and urged international support for their new government. He also revealed ongoing peace deal negotiations with the Pakistani Taliban, facilitated by the Afghan Taliban.
2021: Imran Khan Calls for Criminalizing Insults Against Prophet Muhammad
In 2021, Imran Khan called for global blasphemy laws to criminalize insults against Prophet Muhammad, comparing it to Holocaust denial laws. He urged boycotting products from countries that didn't comply.
2021: Record Tax Collection for Q1 2021
In the first quarter of fiscal year 2021 (calendar year 2020), Pakistan's tax agency (FBR) achieved a significant milestone by surpassing its tax collection target and recording the highest collection ever for that period.
2021: Cumulative Tax Payment Revelation
By 2021, it was revealed that Imran Khan had paid a total of Rs. 4 million in taxes over a span of 37 years.
2021: Positive Public Opinion on Pandemic Response and Economic Indicators
A 2021 Gallup survey indicated that 70% of Pakistanis approved of the government's handling of the pandemic. Economically, Pakistan's debt-to-GDP ratio remained stable, and credit rating agency Fitch projected a decline in the ratio.
January 2022: Tax Payment for 2019
In January 2022, the FBR released its 2019 tax directory for parliamentarians, revealing that Imran Khan had paid Rs. 9.8 million in taxes in 2019.
February 2022: Khan Becomes First Pakistani Prime Minister to Visit Moscow in 23 Years
On February 23, 2022, Khan made a historic visit to Moscow, becoming the first Pakistani Prime Minister to do so in 23 years. His visit focused on discussing bilateral relations and key areas of mutual interest with the Russian leadership.
March 2022: Khan Faces Allegations of US Interference in Pakistani Politics
In March 2022, a leaked diplomatic cypher suggested US pressure on Pakistan to remove Khan from office due to his neutral stance on the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Opposition parties filed a no-confidence motion against Khan, who publicly displayed a letter alleging a "foreign conspiracy" to oust him. He also shared the cypher with Pakistan's Chief Justice, claiming it contained threats from the US.
April 2022: Sentencing of Hafiz Saeed
Hafiz Saeed, involved in the 26/11 Mumbai attacks, received a 31-year prison sentence in April 2022.
April 2022: Imran Khan Removed from Office
Imran Khan's term as Prime Minister of Pakistan ended in April 2022.
April 2022: Khan Removed from Office After No-Confidence Vote
In April 2022, Khan advised the President to dissolve the National Assembly after the Deputy Speaker dismissed a no-confidence motion. However, the Supreme Court deemed the motion's rejection illegal. Subsequently, a no-confidence vote led to Khan's removal as Prime Minister, marking the first such instance in Pakistan's history. Khan attributed his ouster to his independent foreign policy stance, particularly his relations with China and Russia.
April 2022: Khan Discusses Options Amidst No-Confidence Motion and Raises Concerns About Foreign Interference
In April 2022, facing a no-confidence motion, Khan announced that he had discussed options, including resignation, facing the vote, or calling for elections, with the Pakistani establishment. He alleged US involvement in the attempt to remove him from power due to his independent foreign policy and close ties with China and Russia.
April 2022: Ouster as Prime Minister
On April 10, 2022, Imran Khan became the first Prime Minister in Pakistan's history to be removed from office through a vote of no confidence in parliament. His removal followed mounting criticism over his handling of the economy, allegations of corruption, and accusations of stifling dissent.
April 2022: Sentencing of Hafiz Saeed
On April 8, 2022, Hafiz Saeed, a mastermind of the 2008 Mumbai attacks and a UN-designated terrorist, was sentenced to 31 years in prison by Pakistan.
August 2022: Toshakhana Case Filed Against Khan
In August 2022, a case related to the Toshakhana (state gift repository) was filed against Khan by the Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM). This was due to his alleged failure to properly disclose details about gifts received from the Toshakhana in his annual declaration to the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP).
August 2022: Anti-Terrorism Charges
On August 22, 2022, Pakistani police brought charges against Imran Khan under anti-terrorism laws following his allegations that the police and judiciary were involved in the detention and torture of one of his close aides, further escalating political tensions.
October 2022: Khan Disqualified from Public Office by ECP
On October 21, 2022, the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) disqualified Imran Khan from holding public office. The decision stemmed from the Toshakhana case, with the ECP finding him guilty of making false statements and incorrect declarations about his assets and liabilities in his tax filings for the year 2020-21. This disqualification, based on Article 63(1)(p) of the Pakistani constitution, led Khan to organize a protest march, termed Azadi March II.
October 2022: Removal from FATF Greylist
Pakistan was removed from the FATF greylist in October 2022, after demonstrating progress in combating terror financing.
November 2022: Khan Expresses Desire for Improved US-Pakistan Relations
In November 2022, Khan expressed a desire to move past the alleged conspiracy surrounding his removal from office and emphasized the need for improved relations between Pakistan and the United States. He acknowledged the historically unequal dynamics in their relationship but aimed for a future with better collaboration.
November 2022: Imran Khan Shot at Rally
In November 2022, while leading a rally in Wazirabad, Punjab, Imran Khan was shot in the leg by a gunman. The attack occurred during a march to Islamabad demanding snap elections following Khan's ousting. One PTI supporter was killed, and eight others were wounded. The perpetrator, apprehended at the scene, claimed his motive was to stop Khan from "spreading hatred and misleading the people."
2022: Lettergate, No-Confidence Motion, and Charges
In 2022, Imran Khan faced significant political and legal challenges, including allegations of a US-backed plot to remove him from office (Lettergate), a successful no-confidence motion leading to his removal as Prime Minister, and charges related to terrorism and corruption.
2022: End of Prime Ministership and Allegations of Misusing Position
Imran Khan's term as Prime Minister ended in 2022. After his term concluded, he faced accusations of misusing his position during his time in office to buy and sell state gifts. This led to his arrest and sentencing in August 2023.
March 2023: Gallup Pakistan Survey Results
In March 2023, a Gallup Pakistan survey indicated a rise in Imran Khan's approval rating to 61%, showcasing his enduring popularity in Pakistani politics.
March 2023: Arrest Warrant Issued and Subsequent Arrest
In March 2023, an arrest warrant was issued for Imran Khan by the Islamabad district and sessions court, leading to an operation by Islamabad and Lahore police to apprehend him. On May 9, 2023, he was arrested by paramilitary forces at the Islamabad High Court for his alleged involvement in the Al-Qadir Trust case, sparking nationwide protests, which were later deemed illegal by the Supreme Court.
May 2023: Arrest of Imran Khan
Imran Khan was arrested in May 2023 on corruption charges, sparking widespread protests across Pakistan.
June 30, 2023: Tax Payment and Net Worth in 2023
By June 30, 2023, Imran Khan's net worth had increased to an estimated Rs315.95 million, and he paid Rs15.59 million in income tax for the fiscal year.
August 2023: Second Arrest and Sentencing
Imran Khan was arrested for a second time in August 2023 and sentenced to three years imprisonment for misusing his 2018-2022 premiership to buy and sell state gifts received during foreign visits. However, on August 29, 2023, an appeals court suspended his conviction and prison term, granting him bail. Despite this, a special court in Islamabad ordered his continued detention in connection with the "cypher case," which alleges he leaked state secrets related to a diplomatic cable.
August 2023: Sentencing, Prison Term, and Bail
Imran Khan was sentenced to three years in prison for corruption in August 2023. However, his sentence was later suspended, and he was granted bail.
2023: Imran Khan Steps Down as PTI Chairman
Imran Khan concluded his role as chairman of PTI in 2023.
January 2024: Sentencing in Lettergate Case
In January 2024, Imran Khan was sentenced to 10 years in prison for leaking state secrets in the Lettergate case.
January 2024: Conviction and Sentencing
On January 30, 2024, Imran Khan was convicted and sentenced to ten years in prison. This sparked claims that the decision was politically motivated to sideline him and the PTI before the 2024 elections.
March 2024: Visit Ban to Adiala Prison
In March 2024, authorities imposed a two-week ban on visits to Adiala Prison, where Imran Khan was being held, citing security concerns and possible attack threats.
2030: Renewable Energy Goal
Khan's government set a goal to make Pakistan mostly reliant on renewable energy by 2030, reflecting their commitment to combating climate change.