Islamabad witnessed a tense atmosphere as Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leaders issued a stern warning regarding the health condition of their imprisoned founder and former prime minister, Imran Khan. During a press conference held at the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa House on Friday, party officials expressed deep alarm over what they described as the rapid decline in Khan’s health. They made it clear that any negligence or delay in providing him with adequate medical treatment would not be tolerated, signaling their readiness to mobilize a nationwide movement demanding his immediate release.
The PTI leadership underscored the urgency of transferring Imran Khan to Shifa International Hospital, where he could receive specialised and comprehensive medical care. They emphasized that the former premier remains one of the most beloved and influential political figures in Pakistan, whose wellbeing is a matter of national concern. The party’s concern stems not only from humanitarian grounds but also from the political implications of his deteriorating condition.
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi, speaking alongside senior PTI leaders, strongly criticized the federal government’s handling of the situation. He accused the authorities of irresponsible and unlawful behavior, particularly highlighting the politically motivated cases filed against Imran Khan. Afridi stressed that the government has both a legal and moral obligation to ensure the former prime minister receives proper medical attention, given his status as a former head of government and a prominent public figure.
One of the most contentious issues raised was the government’s refusal to permit access to Imran Khan’s personal doctors and close family members. Afridi described this denial as a blatant violation of basic human rights and legal standards, which only exacerbates the gravity of the situation. He warned that such actions would not be accepted by the party or its supporters and reiterated PTI’s preparedness to launch a large-scale movement to secure Khan’s release if necessary. However, he also noted that the party had temporarily scaled back its political activities out of respect for the holy month of Ramadan, while maintaining that their determination and organizational readiness remain undiminished.
The provincial chief minister further condemned the government’s approach as reckless and unlawful, pointing out that despite repeated efforts by the PTI to arrange suitable medical care for Imran Khan, the current administration has consistently rejected these requests. This refusal has intensified fears about the former prime minister’s health and the potential consequences of delayed treatment. The party leaders also demanded immediate and unrestricted access for Imran Khan’s personal physicians, along with unhindered meetings between him, his family, and senior PTI officials, warning that any further postponement could lead to serious repercussions.
Adding to the concerns, PTI Khyber Pakhtunkhwa chapter president and Member of National Assembly, Junaid Akbar, highlighted what he described as a broader political crackdown targeting the party. He pointed to the disqualification of PTI senators and the ongoing suppression of party workers as part of a systematic effort to weaken the party’s influence. Akbar also linked the internal political repression to the government’s faltering foreign policy, particularly the increasingly complex and precarious relations with the Taliban administration in Afghanistan. He cautioned that the continued mistreatment of Imran Khan could escalate tensions beyond the government’s control, further destabilizing the political landscape.
Senior PTI leader and prominent lawyer Babar Awan condemned the secrecy surrounding Imran Khan’s medical condition, labeling it a criminal act. He issued a stern warning to the authorities, stating unequivocally that if any harm were to come to the former prime minister due to inadequate medical care, those responsible would face severe consequences and would find no safe haven within the country. Awan reiterated that the party’s struggle remains peaceful and firmly within legal boundaries, but emphasized that their demand for transparency and accountability is non-negotiable.
Former Khyber Pakhtunkhwa finance minister Taimur Jhagra also weighed in, asserting that PTI continues to stand as the only political force committed to upholding the Constitution. He warned that the government’s hostile and dismissive attitude is deepening the rift between the public and state institutions, which could have long-term detrimental effects on governance and social cohesion. Jhagra stressed that access to proper medical treatment is a fundamental right, urging the government to make a decisive choice to de-escalate the situation before it spirals further out of control.
Meanwhile, PTI lawmaker Shahid Khattak clarified that the party is not attempting to politicize Imran Khan’s health crisis but is genuinely alarmed by the risk of irreversible damage to his wellbeing and vision. He appealed to the judiciary to expedite hearings on all pending cases involving the former prime minister and to order his immediate transfer to Shifa International Hospital without further delay. The PTI leaders collectively called upon the courts and relevant authorities to act swiftly and decisively to safeguard Imran Khan’s rights and health.
In conclusion, the PTI reaffirmed its commitment to continue its political struggle within constitutional and legal frameworks, while warning that the growing mistrust between the public and state institutions must be addressed urgently. The party’s leaders made it clear that they will not back down until Imran Khan receives the medical care he urgently requires and is released from custody, highlighting the critical juncture at which Pakistan’s political and humanitarian concerns now stand.
