Kasim Khan expressed deep concerns about his father’s well-being while imprisoned, fearing for his life daily. Imran Khan, the former cricket star turned Prime Minister of Pakistan, is currently serving a 14-year sentence on what his family claims are false corruption charges. Allegations include solitary confinement, inadequate medical care for deteriorating health, and restricted communication with loved ones. Kasim, in an interview with As It Happens, highlighted the harsh conditions his father is facing, stating that the situation has been exceptionally challenging.
Imran Khan’s political party, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), is actively challenging the government in court over the treatment of Khan and has planned nationwide protests to demand his release. Despite the family’s claims, the Pakistani government has denied all allegations of mistreatment.
Imran Khan, who served as Pakistan’s Prime Minister from 2018 until his ousting in April 2022, was subsequently arrested in August 2023 on multiple charges. In January 2025, he was sentenced to 14 years in prison for land corruption, which he vehemently denies, attributing the charges to an attempt by the military and intelligence agencies to undermine him and his party.
Reports indicate that Khan’s health is deteriorating in prison, with his family and legal team alleging instances of torture. The UN special rapporteur on torture has urged the Pakistani government to address the inhumane detention conditions Khan is subjected to. Despite the government’s assertions of providing necessary amenities, Khan’s family insists on the deteriorating state of his health and the reported torture.
Kasim Khan has called out the government’s denial of mistreatment as baseless, demanding compliance with court orders to ensure his father’s well-being. The PTI has taken legal action against the government for contempt of court, seeking justice for Imran Khan.
International intervention has been sought for Imran Khan’s release, with his son emphasizing the need for global support. However, concerns arise regarding the U.S.’ stance due to its close ties with Pakistan’s army chief, Asim Munir, whom Kasim accuses of personal vendetta against his father. Efforts for support have been made in other avenues, including a petition presented in the Canadian House of Commons calling for Imran Khan’s release on humanitarian grounds.
The situation surrounding Imran Khan’s imprisonment continues to draw attention and calls for justice from various quarters.