Imran Khan aide who criticised Asim Munir in Cambridge speech attacked; nose and jaw broken

Shahzad Akbar, a close aide to former Pakistan prime minister Imran Khan, was violently attacked outside his home in Cambridge, UK. The attack left him with a fractured nose and jaw.

According to sources and statements from Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), Akbar was assaulted by one or more masked individuals near his residence on Wednesday. The attackers reportedly hit him repeatedly in the face. He was rushed to a local hospital where he was treated for fractures, according to the Times of India.

Supporters and reports say the former aide had recently delivered a speech critical of Pakistan’s current military leadership, particularly Army Chief General Asim Munir. That speech—which went viral online—is now being linked by some supporters to the reason behind the attack.

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#BREAKING: Former Advisor to Imran Khan and Pakistani Minister Shahzad Akbar attacked in the UK at the directions of Pakistan Army Chief Asim Munir. Akbar has fractured face, currently in hospital. Transnational repression by Pakistan. Below speech by Akbar against Asim Munir. pic.twitter.com/RHYLgewpwX

— Aditya Raj Kaul (@AdityaRajKaul) December 25, 2025

Shahzad Akbar, known for his outspoken criticism of Pakistan’s military establishment, especially General Munir, has been a polarising figure. After serving as an adviser under Imran Khan’s administration, he moved to the UK where he has continued to voice sharp criticism of the current Pakistan government and military leadership.

British police are investigating the incident. Authorities at the scene collected evidence, including CCTV footage, and are making enquiries to identify and locate the attackers. Akbar has reportedly registered a formal complaint with law enforcement.

What are the broader implications?

The assault on Akbar raises wider questions about the reach and risks faced by political critics and dissidents even when they are outside their home countries.

In recent years, several high-profile figures from Pakistan’s political landscape have faced threats, legal battles, and attacks, both at home and abroad. While no official link has been established between the speech and the assault, the timing and nature of the incident have fuelled political debate and concern among supporters.