Establishment enjoys 'absolute power' in Pakistan, says Imran.

LAHORE -- Former prime minister and PTI Chairman Imran Khan has said the establishment exercises 'absolute authority' in Pakistan compared to civilian setups.

Speaking to a group of journalists at his residence in Lahore on Thursday, which has now become somewhat part of his daily routine, the former premier said things went south for him after he visited Russia in February this year.

Imran said the army chief wanted Pakistan to vote against the Russian invasion of Ukraine at the United Nations while he was of the view that abstaining would be a better option.

He said that the army chief also informed him of American pressure on the matter.

'I told him [army chief] that Pakistan should follow independent foreign policy.'

The ex-premier, who was ousted from power in April this year via the opposition's no-confidence vote, said during his visit to Moscow, Russia had offered gas and oil supplies to Pakistan in addition to wheat at subsidised prices 'which is what Pakistan was in need of to offset rising inflation'.

Speaking on the occasion, he also conceded that he had differences with the establishment on the issue of then Punjab chief minister...