In an exclusive interview with Kasim Khan, he expressed his deep concerns about his father’s well-being in prison, fearing that each day may bring the news of Imran Khan’s death behind bars. Imran Khan, a former cricket star and prime minister of Pakistan, is currently serving a 14-year sentence on alleged corruption charges that his family claims are fabricated.
Kasim revealed that his father is enduring harsh conditions in solitary confinement, lacking proper medical attention for deteriorating eye health, and deprived of communication with his family since March. The family has been distressed by the difficult circumstances Imran Khan is facing and is desperate for updates on his condition.
Imran Khan’s political party, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), is actively challenging the government’s treatment of Khan in court and planning nationwide protests to demand his release. Despite the allegations of mistreatment, the Pakistani government has refuted all claims.
Imran Khan, who served as prime minister from 2018 until his ousting in April 2022 through a no-confidence vote, was later arrested on multiple charges in August 2023. In January 2025, he was sentenced to 14 years in prison for alleged involvement in land corruption, which he vehemently denies, attributing the legal actions to an orchestrated attempt by the military and intelligence agencies to dismantle his political career.
Reports from Khan’s family and legal team indicate that his health is deteriorating in custody, with concerns about a blood clot behind his eye and claims of torture. The United Nations special rapporteur on torture has called for urgent action to address the inhumane detention conditions.
Pakistan’s government has dismissed the allegations of mistreatment as “fake propaganda,” asserting that Khan has access to basic amenities, family visits, and medical examinations. Despite these claims, Kasim rebuked the government’s statements as baseless and emphasized the need for impartial medical evaluations for his father.
International intervention has been sought to secure Imran Khan’s release, with support from various quarters, including a petition presented in the Canadian House of Commons. Kasim remains hopeful that global advocacy efforts will bring justice for his father, as they navigate the challenges posed by the ongoing legal and political turmoil surrounding Imran Khan’s imprisonment.
