Pakistan Supreme Court Orders Imran Khan's Transfer to Hospital Amid Health Concerns

Pakistan’s highest court has intervened in the incarceration of former Prime Minister Imran Khan, ordering his immediate transfer from prison to a hospital. A three-judge panel directed that Khan be moved to Shifa International Hospital in Islamabad within the next two days for a thorough medical examination by physicians.

The court’s directive emphasizes the constitutional obligation to safeguard the well-being of prisoners. Khan’s legal team has repeatedly raised concerns about his deteriorating health, including issues with his eyesight, and alleged difficulties in accessing specialized medical care while in detention.

Lawyers for the 73-year-old politician, who was jailed in 2023 on corruption charges he maintains are politically motivated, have stated that he has significant vision loss in his right eye. They claim prison authorities have not adequately addressed these medical needs. An advisor to Khan expressed that the transfer should have occurred sooner to prevent further health decline.

The court order specifically states that an eye specialist will be involved in Khan’s hospital treatment. In addition to the medical transfer, the ruling also grants Khan weekly visits from his family and allows him telephone calls with his sons.

Khan, a former captain of Pakistan’s national cricket team, led the country as prime minister from 2018 to 2022. He faces over 100 cases, including allegations of leaking state secrets and selling government gifts. He and his wife received a 17-year sentence late last year. His imprisonment has led to significant public protests and a subsequent crackdown by authorities, yet he remains a prominent figure in Pakistani politics.

Supporters of Khan have been cautioned by both the court and his political party, Tehreek-e-Insaf, against gathering outside the hospital upon his transfer, as this would violate the court’s order. The Pakistani government has not yet issued a public statement regarding the court’s ruling.

Source: Nile Post