Militant group say they will kill 'infidel' politician if he holds march to their stronghold to protest against US drone attacks

The Pakistani Taliban have threatened to kill Imran Khan if the cricket player turned politician holds a planned march to their tribal stronghold to protest against US drone attacks.

Although the Pakistani Taliban oppose the strikes, which have killed many of their fighters, a spokesman, Ahsanullah Ahsan, said they would target Khan because he calls himself a "liberal". Ahsan also warned they would attack anyone who participates in upcoming elections.

"If he comes, our suicide bombers will target him," Ahsan said in an interview in the militant group's South Waziristan stronghold. "We will kill him."

The threat could come as a surprise to many in Pakistan who have criticised Khan for not being tough enough on the Pakistani Taliban and instead focusing most of his criticism on the government's alliance with the US. Some critics have nicknamed him "Taliban Khan" because of his views and his cosy ties with conservative Islamists who could help him attract rightwing voters in national elections likely to be held later this year or early next year.

Khan, who is the founder of the Pakistan Movement for Justice party, has gained momentum over the past year after more than a decade in politics. He is perhaps the most famous person in Pakistan because he led the country's cricket team to victory in the 1992 World Cup.

Khan was once known for his playboy lifestyle and marriage to the British socialite Jemima Khan. But the couple divorced several years ago, and he has since become more conservative and religious. Khan has described himself as a liberal in various TV interviews, but has also made clear that he is a practising Muslim.

Ahsan said the militants did not want Khan's help in opposing drone attacks.

"We will not accept help or sympathy from any infidel," said Ahsan, referring to Khan. "We can fight on our own with the help of God," he said, as drones buzzed overhead.

The spokesman for Khan's party could not be immediately reached for comment.