Imran Khan’s sons have accused the Pakistani government of deliberately endangering their father’s life amid his ongoing imprisonment. Khan, the former Test cricket captain and prime minister of Pakistan, has been detained for nearly three years on charges his supporters describe as politically motivated. He was removed from office in August 2022.
Kasim and Sulaiman, Khan’s sons with Jemima Goldsmith, expressed serious concerns over their father’s treatment during an interview at Lord’s Cricket Ground. They said restrictions on Khan’s detention have intensified, leading to increased isolation and harsh conditions. Kasim described the situation as an attempt by authorities to “kill him in there” by keeping him imprisoned as long as possible and silencing him.
The sons said Khan reported deteriorating conditions, comparing his experience with other political prisoners who have reportedly died in custody. They emphasized the need for proper medical care, noting that Khan appeared visibly stressed, a striking contrast to his normally calm demeanor. Kasim recalled an incident when Khan remained composed even while facing armed robbery.
Last week, Pakistan’s Supreme Court ordered that Khan be transferred to a hospital in Islamabad for treatment, mandating he remain there until at least September 16. However, Khan’s sons claim he was taken to a government medical facility for only a short examination before being returned to jail. They said an independent hospital, Shifa, was prepared to receive him, but that visit was canceled abruptly, leaving doctors and family members waiting.
Both Kasim and Sulaiman, who hold UK citizenship, said their attempts to visit their father have been blocked due to “technical reasons.” They also criticized the UK government’s response, describing it as weak. A Foreign Office spokesperson reiterated that Pakistan’s judicial processes are a domestic matter and stated that UK officials have repeatedly urged Pakistan to respect its constitution and international human rights obligations, including regarding Khan’s treatment.
In response, the Pakistani government dismissed the allegations of mistreatment. Through a statement distributed via the Associated Press, officials described Khan as a “convicted prisoner” housed in a compound consisting of seven cells, with access to exercise facilities, home-cooked meals, books, and television. The statement indicated that Khan had received over 900 visits since his incarceration began in 2023 and that medical assessments found him to be in good health.
The situation highlights ongoing tensions over Khan’s imprisonment and the broader political landscape in Pakistan, with his family and supporters alleging politically motivated persecution, while government authorities maintain that his detention is lawful and humane.