Imran Khan Hospitalized for Eye Injection Amid Party’s Criticism of Night Transfer
Former Prime Minister Imran Khan has been hospitalized for an eye injection amidst concerns raised by his party and family. He was moved under tight security from Adiala Jail to the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS) in Islamabad early Tuesday morning for a scheduled second injection necessary to treat his deteriorating eyesight.
Health Concerns Surrounding Imran Khan
The 74-year-old leader, currently serving multiple sentences since his conviction in a corruption case in August 2023, reportedly lost 85% of his vision in his right eye due to delayed treatment while incarcerated. The government’s reports indicate that he underwent surgery in January to remove a blood clot from the same eye. Upon his arrival at PIMS, he was assessed by a team of specialists, including a cardiologist who conducted an echocardiogram and ECG.
Details of the Medical Procedure
- The procedure was categorized as day-care surgery.
- Khan was administered a second intravitreal Anti-VEGF injection.
- The medical team confirmed his clinical stability throughout the process.
Following the procedure, Khan was discharged with aftercare instructions, although his family expressed dissatisfaction with the lack of transparency. Zulfiqar Bukhari, Khan’s foreign press adviser, criticized the hospital’s brief press statement, calling for a comprehensive report from independent medical professionals familiar with Khan’s health history.
Family’s Concerns on Treatment Transparency
Khan’s sister, Aleema Khanum, voiced her frustration, claiming they learned about his midnight transfer through media channels instead of direct communication. She described the situation as “criminal” and demanded that Khan be treated at Shifa International in Islamabad, accompanied by his personal doctors and family members.
Parliamentary Affairs Minister Tariq Fazal Chaudhry addressed concerns regarding Khan’s hospitalization. He emphasized that the government had facilitated Khan’s transfer under strict security while adhering to legal and humanitarian protocols.
Future Medical Needs
Chaudhry announced that Khan is set to receive a third dose of the eye injection in 30 days, on March 24, and noted improvements in his eyesight following the initial procedure. However, the political climate remains tense as Khan continues to face several legal challenges that keep him behind bars.
Public Reaction
The political party PTI has called for greater transparency regarding Khan’s medical treatments. They argue that the current level of secrecy surrounding his healthcare only incites public distrust and raises further questions about the integrity of his treatment process.
Imran Khan, a celebrated cricket captain who led Pakistan to its first Cricket World Cup victory in 1992, remains a polarizing figure in the nation. His ongoing legal issues have fueled calls for better treatment not just from his supporters but also from other cricketing personalities across the region.
