In brief
Pakistan’s Supreme Court has directed that former Prime Minister Imran Khan, jailed since 2023 on corruption charges, be transferred to Shifa International Hospital for medical evaluation. The decision includes weekly family visits and telephone calls, reflecting the court’s mandate to protect prisoner health and dignity. Khan’s recent accusations of political persecution highlight the ongoing tension between the judiciary and political factions, while widespread protests over his imprisonment continue to stir public outrage.
In a landmark decision, Pakistan’s Supreme Court has ordered that former Prime Minister Imran Khan, who has been in custody since 2023 on corruption charges, be transferred to Shifa International Hospital in Islamabad for an urgent health assessment. The three‑judge court cited complaints of “poor eyesight” and the absence of specialist medical care as reasons for the move.
Khan, 73, will also be granted weekly meetings with his family and the ability to make telephone calls to his sons – a concession that underscores the court’s commitment to safeguarding the life, health, dignity and security of prisoners.
His lawyer cited a 15% vision loss in his right eye, deteriorating while imprisonment, and the decision follows the court’s broader mandate to enforce humane treatment of detainees.
The ruling comes amid growing domestic unrest; protests on Khan’s release have sparked crackdowns by authorities, while the political opposition continues to view his imprisonment as a politically motivated maneuver.
Both Khan and his wife, Bushra Bibi, received 17‑year sentences last year. Despite being incarcerated, Khan remains a prominent voice in Pakistani politics, bolstered by a loyal supporter base that calls for his release.
