'No proof of life': Imran Khan's son seeks global intervention
What's the story
Kasim Khan, the son of former Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan, has made a public appeal for international intervention amid fears for his father's safety. He claimed that his father has been kept in total isolation in jail for six weeks without any family contact or legal access. "My father has been under arrest for 845 days. For the past six weeks, he has been kept in solitary confinement in a death cell with zero transparency," Kasim wrote on X (formerly Twitter).
Family access
Khan's sisters denied visits, alleges son
Kasim further alleged that his father's sisters have been denied every visit despite court orders allowing access. He said there has been no communication with the outside world. "There have been no phone calls, no meetings and no proof of life. Me and my brother have had no contact with our father," he said. "I call on the international community, global human rights organizations, and every democratic voice to intervene urgently," Kasim wrote.
Sister's statement
Imran Khan's sister voices concerns over his safety
Imran Khan's sister, Aleema Khanum, also expressed concerns over his safety in a post on X. She said they have no access to verified information about his health and safety. "The only reason we believe him to be safe is because the authorities would not dare to hurt even a hair on Imran Khan's head. They are well aware of the consequences of any such stupidity. He is the leader of at least 90 percent of Pakistan," she wrote.
Party's worry
Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf leaders express concern over Khan's health
The Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party, which Khan founded, has also expressed concern over his health. PTI leaders said they haven't been able to meet him for over three weeks. Zulfikar Bukhari, the party's spokesperson, told Reuters that "his health is our concern." Local media reports have also suggested talks of transferring Khan to a high-security facility for further isolation. However, a jail official told Reuters that he was "in good health" and no such transfer was planned.
Sentence details
Imran Khan serving 14-year sentence on corruption charges
Khan is permitted to meet with visitors at least once a week under prison rules, though prison officials can revoke this privilege. Khan has been in jail since August 2023, serving a 14-year sentence on corruption charges. He claims these cases were fabricated to politically sideline him, an allegation the military establishment denies. His arrest triggered nationwide protests and a crackdown on PTI.