In a recent development, senior Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leader Sardar Latif Khosa disclosed that former Prime Minister Imran Khan has entrusted Sohail Afridi with the critical responsibility of orchestrating a street movement. This revelation came during Khosa’s appearance on a prominent current affairs program, where he also addressed the ongoing legal and health challenges faced by Khan while in custody.
Khosa elaborated on the gravity of the situation by mentioning that he had submitted a petition to the Supreme Court of Pakistan earlier on the same day. The petition underscores the deep concerns expressed by Imran Khan’s sisters regarding their brother’s deteriorating health condition. Khosa emphasized that these worries are entirely justified, reflecting the emotional and physical strain Khan is enduring. He stressed that no concessions or compromises can be made when it comes to the health and well-being of the former premier.
Delving deeper into the legal intricacies, Khosa highlighted the challenges faced by Khan’s legal team. He lamented the current state of the judiciary and constitutional processes, suggesting that both have been undermined in recent times. Drawing a poignant comparison, he described a sister’s role as akin to that of a mother, thereby affirming their right to openly criticize and advocate for Khan’s welfare. Khosa also clarified his own position, noting that while he has successfully represented Imran Khan in several cases—securing complete relief for the PTI leader—he does not interfere in matters handled by other legal representatives.
Addressing the specifics of the ongoing legal proceedings, Khosa explained that only those granted power of attorney have the authority to argue cases on behalf of Khan. He pointed out that Salman Safdar, despite being appointed as amicus curiae (friend of the court) in one particular case, was not acting as Khan’s lawyer. Unfortunately, the recommendations put forth in the amicus curiae’s report have not been implemented, further complicating the situation.
Khosa also brought attention to the pressing issue of Khan’s medical treatment while incarcerated. He revealed that the court was urged once again to ensure that Khan’s sisters receive satisfactory assurances regarding his healthcare. Khosa, Khan has suffered from food poisoning on three separate occasions during his imprisonment, a fact that has heightened the family’s anxiety. He reiterated that the former prime minister’s health must not be compromised under any circumstances.
Turning to the political dimension, Khosa confirmed that Imran Khan has explicitly assigned Sohail Afridi to spearhead the street movement aimed at rallying public support. This strategy is seen as a response to the increasing pressure on Khan and his party. In line with this, the Chief Minister of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa recently announced the formation of the “Imran Khan Release Force,” a youth-driven initiative designed to mobilize supporters and amplify the street protests.
Khosa further drew a stark contrast between the treatment meted out to Imran Khan and that experienced by other political figures. He pointed out that even a fraction of the hardships Khan is currently facing were never imposed on former President Asif Ali Zardari. Reflecting on his own political journey with the Pakistan People’s Party, Khosa recalled the establishment of the Zardari Release Committee during Zardari’s detention, highlighting the differing approaches to political imprisonment in Pakistan’s recent history.
