Spokesman Alleges Imran Khan Denied Jail Medical Access
Former Prime Minister Imran Khan is currently alleged to be denied adequate medical care while imprisoned, according to his spokesman, Zulfi Bukhari. Khan reportedly suffered significant vision loss, claiming to have lost 85% of sight in his right eye. Despite these alarming health concerns, his personal doctor has not been granted access to examine him since his imprisonment in August 2023.
Medical Access and Health Concerns
Bukhari shared these details during an interview with Sky News, highlighting the lack of transparency regarding Khan’s medical situation. A well-equipped ambulance was sent to Adiala prison, but it did not transport Khan to a hospital for further evaluation.
- Khan has been in prison for nearly 90 days.
- His family has not been permitted to see him.
- Concerns about his isolation and health remain unaddressed.
Bukhari questioned the rationale behind these restrictions. “Why is his personal doctor not allowed to see him?” he asked. “We are left only with hearsay about his condition.” This situation has raised alarms among Khan’s supporters, prompting protests demanding his transfer to a medical facility for specialized treatment.
Legal and Family Dynamics
In response to growing concerns, Pakistan’s Supreme Court permitted Khan’s lawyer, Salman Safdar, to visit him. Safdar confirmed the extent of Khan’s vision loss and urged for an urgent medical assessment. However, Khan’s family has reported that they were not informed of his medical procedures.
In January, Khan underwent a brief medical procedure related to his eye condition, but no details were communicated to his family or legal team, a situation Bukhari described as a “basic right for a prisoner.”
Impact on Family and Supporters
The prison experience has strained Khan’s family relationships. His sons, Sulaiman and Kasim, expressed their frustration after months of silence and worry over their father’s wellbeing. Recently, they managed to speak with him for a brief 20 minutes.
- Visas for Khan’s sons to visit him have faced delays.
- Bukhari criticized this as “inhumane,” given the family’s limited contact.
Furthermore, Bukhari asserted that the government appears focused on keeping Khan isolated, which he believes is “ripping the country apart.” He emphasized that the ongoing turmoil in Pakistan should not overshadow Khan’s plight and calls for a review of the treatment he is receiving while incarcerated.
Political Background
Imran Khan’s legal troubles began after his ousting in a parliamentary vote in 2022. Since then, he has faced multiple charges, leading to significant prison sentences. These include a three-year term for illegally selling state gifts, followed by additional years for corruption-related convictions.
Despite the bleak circumstances, Khan’s supporters remain hopeful. They believe he will eventually return to lead Pakistan again. Bukhari noted that Khan maintains a positive outlook, stating that he has always overcome challenges in the past.
El-Balad will continue to monitor the developments surrounding Khan’s health and his ongoing legal battles. The situation remains complex, with public support continuing to mount for his release and proper medical care.
