Islamabad, 19 August– Pakistan’s Supreme Court has ordered former Prime Minister Imran Khan to be transferred from prison to a hospital for medical treatment, according to his party, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI). The ruling comes amid growing concerns from his family and party leaders over his deteriorating health condition.
The 73-year-old former cricket star-turned-politician has been incarcerated since August 2023 and faces multiple legal cases following his removal from office in 2022. Khan has consistently denied wrongdoing, describing the cases against him as politically motivated.
PTI spokesperson Zulfiqar Bukhari welcomed the court’s decision, calling it a significant relief. He argued that earlier medical intervention could have prevented further deterioration of Khan’s health, including reported vision problems.
According to Khan’s spokesperson, Naeem Haider Panjutha, the Supreme Court has instructed authorities to transfer him to Shifa International Hospital within 48 hours and keep him there until September 16 for treatment and observation.
Lawyers representing Khan have previously claimed that he suffered a substantial loss of vision in his right eye while in custody. His sons and supporters have repeatedly raised concerns about his health and access to adequate medical care.
Several international cricket figures, including former Indian cricketers, expressed concern earlier this year over Khan’s imprisonment and called for proper medical treatment.
Despite legal and political challenges, PTI remains one of Pakistan’s most influential political forces. Although the party was stripped of its iconic “bat” election symbol ahead of the 2024 general election, its candidates continued to contest as independents, reflecting the party’s enduring support base across the country.
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