Islamabad witnessed a tense atmosphere as Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leaders issued a stern warning regarding the deteriorating health condition of their jailed founder and former prime minister, Imran Khan. During a press conference held at the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa House on Friday, party officials expressed deep apprehension over the current state of the ex-premier’s health and made it clear that they will not tolerate any form of negligence or delay in providing him with adequate medical treatment. They announced that PTI is fully prepared to mobilize a nationwide movement to demand his immediate release if the government continues to ignore their calls.
The leaders emphasized that Imran Khan remains one of the most beloved and influential political figures in Pakistan, with widespread public support cutting across various segments of society. Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi, speaking alongside senior PTI members, vehemently criticized the federal government’s handling of the situation, labeling it as both irresponsible and unlawful. Afridi highlighted that as a former prime minister, Imran Khan deserves special consideration and care, and the government bears a legal as well as moral obligation to ensure his health is not compromised while in custody.
One of the key points raised was the government’s refusal to allow Imran Khan’s personal doctors and family members to visit him freely, which Afridi described as a blatant violation of basic human rights and established legal norms. This restriction, he warned, is unacceptable and will not be tolerated by the party or its supporters. Although PTI has temporarily scaled back its political activities out of respect for the holy month of Ramadan, Afridi made it clear that the party’s determination and readiness to launch a vigorous campaign for Imran’s release remain undiminished.
Further condemning the government’s approach, Afridi stated that despite repeated efforts by PTI to secure specialized medical care for their leader, the authorities have consistently denied these requests. The party leaders demanded an immediate transfer of Imran Khan to Shifa International Hospital, where he can receive the necessary treatment under expert supervision. They also called for unrestricted access for his family and senior party officials to meet with him, warning that any further delays could have dire consequences for his health and wellbeing.
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 opposition. Akbar also criticized the government’s faltering foreign policy, particularly in relation to the complex and volatile situation with the Taliban administration in Afghanistan, suggesting that the internal repression is exacerbating tensions that could spiral out of control.
Senior PTI leader and prominent lawyer Babar Awan condemned the secrecy surrounding Imran Khan’s medical condition, calling it a criminal offense. He issued a stern warning to the authorities, stating that if any harm befalls the former prime minister due to inadequate care, those responsible will face severe consequences and will find no refuge within the country. Awan reiterated that while the party’s struggle remains peaceful and within legal boundaries, 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 firmly in support of the Constitution amid growing political tensions. He cautioned that the government’s hostile stance is only deepening the divide between the public and state institutions, which could have long-term repercussions for national stability. Jhagra emphasized that access to proper medical treatment is a fundamental right that must be respected, urging the government to take immediate steps to de-escalate the situation.
Meanwhile, PTI lawmaker Shahid Khattak stressed that the party is not attempting to politicize Imran Khan’s health crisis but is genuinely alarmed about the risk of irreversible damage to his physical and mental wellbeing. He appealed to the judiciary to expedite hearings of all pending cases against the former prime minister and to order his prompt transfer to Shifa International Hospital for specialized care. The PTI leadership collectively called on the courts and relevant authorities to act swiftly and decisively to safeguard Imran Khan’s rights and health.
In conclusion, PTI leaders reaffirmed their commitment to continue their political struggle within the framework of the Constitution and the law. They warned that failure to address the health concerns of their leader and ongoing political repression could further erode public trust in state institutions, potentially leading to greater instability. The party remains resolute in its demand for transparency, justice, and humane treatment for Imran Khan, signaling that the coming days could witness intensified political activity centered around this critical issue.
