Concerns Over Imran Khan's Health and Legal Situation Amidst Family's Plea for Visitation

Imran Khan, the former Prime Minister of Pakistan, has been incarcerated since August 2023 following convictions that he and his political party, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), claim are politically motivated. His sons, Kasim and Sulaiman Khan, have expressed deep concern for their father's health, citing significant vision loss in his right eye while in jail. They are currently seeking permission to visit him, having been separated for over two years. Their last communication with Khan was on February 16, 2026, marking the first time they spoke since September 2022.

Reuters

Khan's lawyer informed the Supreme Court of Pakistan that he has been denied timely medical treatment for his eye condition, although a medical board recently reported some improvement after treatment. The Supreme Court has requested details regarding Khan's medical care, amidst ongoing claims of neglect from opposition parties.

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Kasim and Sulaiman Khan, aged 26 and 29 respectively, are based in London and have applied for visas to visit their father. They have not seen him since November 2022, shortly after he survived an assassination attempt. The brothers suspect that the delay in their visa applications may be due to concerns from the authorities about the potential media attention their visit could attract. "Maybe the establishment is worried that if we go and see him it would create more noise," Sulaiman remarked.

Reuters

While the immediate concern for the Khan family is Imran's health, they also emphasize the importance of his legal rights. Kasim highlighted the need for "abiding by correct human rights processes and also the rule of law," advocating for a fair trial. The media landscape surrounding Khan has become increasingly restrictive, with broadcast outlets barred from airing his name or image, limiting public access to information about his situation.

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In response to Khan's imprisonment, PTI supporters have mobilized, blocking major highways between Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Punjab for four days, which has disrupted transportation and supply chains. This grassroots movement reflects the ongoing support for Khan, who led PTI to power in 2018 and maintains a significant following across key provinces.

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Authorities in Pakistan have stated that medical procedures for Khan are ongoing and have rejected claims of neglect. The Pakistani embassy in London and the foreign ministry did not respond to requests for comments regarding the family's visa applications or the conditions of Khan's detention.

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• “It's hard not to feel low at times because we've been away from him so long,” — Kasim Khan, Son of Imran Khan

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• “Maybe the establishment is worried that if we go and see him it would create more noise, and just more attention to his situation,” — Sulaiman Khan, Son of Imran Khan

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• “keep faith and keep fighting” — Kasim Khan, urging Khan's supporters

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The situation surrounding Imran Khan remains complex, with health concerns, legal battles, and public support intertwining as his family seeks to navigate the challenges posed by his imprisonment.

Reuters