Imran Khan, the former Prime Minister of Pakistan, is reportedly receiving medical attention in prison for a serious eye condition, but concerns are mounting over the adequacy of that care and restrictions on access to his personal physicians and family. The situation has sparked protests from supporters and raised questions about the treatment of political prisoners in Pakistan.
According to his spokesman, Zulfi Bukhari, Khan has lost approximately 85% of the vision in his right eye. Bukhari told Sky News that Khan’s personal doctor has been denied the opportunity to examine the imprisoned former leader. “Why are we getting phone calls and just being told reports? Why is his personal doctor not allowed to be present? Or at the very least, see him now after they’ve done the check-up? The same goes for any family member,” Bukhari questioned.
Khan, 73, has been detained at Adiala prison since August 2023, following convictions in a series of cases he maintains are politically motivated. He has been held in isolation for approximately 90 days, with limited contact with family. Bukhari stated that Khan has not been able to see his family during this period.
On Sunday, a medical team was dispatched to the prison with a fully equipped ambulance, but Bukhari expressed concern that Khan was not taken to a hospital with the necessary facilities. The team reportedly relayed information to Khan’s personal physician, but Bukhari described this as “hearsay.”
The Supreme Court of Pakistan had ordered a medical evaluation of Khan amid growing concerns about his eyesight and also permitted a phone call between Khan and his sons. While the call took place over the weekend, Khan’s sister, Aleema Khan, expressed frustration that the family was not consulted before the initial medical procedures were carried out. “Imran Khan shall not be given any treatment without the presence and approval of his personal doctors and family members,” she stated on Monday, rejecting any assessment conducted by government-appointed doctors as “unacceptable.”
The Pakistani government maintains that Khan is receiving appropriate medical care. Information minister Attaullah Tarar stated on Saturday that a detailed examination was conducted within the prison, and that doctors concluded Khan’s eyesight had improved with “no major complications” emerging. However, Dr. Aasim Yusuf, Khan’s personal physician, clarified that he could not confirm or deny this assessment as he has been denied access to examine Khan himself.
The situation comes after Khan underwent a surgical procedure in late January to remove a blood clot from his eye, following reports of partial vision loss. His son, Kasim Khan, claimed earlier this month that his father now has only 15% vision remaining in his right eye.
The controversy surrounding Khan’s health and imprisonment has fueled protests by supporters of his Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party. Demonstrations have taken place in Islamabad and other cities, demanding better medical care and access to his legal team and family.
Khan’s supporters and family allege a pattern of medical neglect and deliberate obstruction of access to proper care. They claim the authorities are intentionally hindering his treatment and isolating him from his loved ones. Bukhari emphasized the broader political context, stating that Pakistan is “deteriorating” while the focus remains on “how do we keep Imran Khan caged away.”
Khan’s legal battles stem from a series of convictions, including a three-year sentence for illegally selling state gifts, a 14-year sentence in a corruption case, and a 17-year sentence related to fraud involving state gifts. He maintains that these charges are politically motivated, stemming from his removal from office in a 2022 parliamentary vote.
The case highlights the ongoing political turmoil in Pakistan and raises concerns about the treatment of opposition figures. Khan, a former cricket star who rose to prominence as a populist leader, continues to command significant support despite his imprisonment. His supporters believe the charges against him are designed to prevent him from re-entering politics.
As of , the situation remains fluid, with Khan’s family and legal team continuing to push for independent medical evaluations and access to their client. The Pakistani government has yet to respond directly to the specific allegations of obstruction raised by Khan’s representatives.
