Imran Khan Faces Solitary Confinement for Over Three Months
Pakistan's former prime minister Imran Khan has spent more than three months in solitary confinement. His political party, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), made this serious allegation on Monday. The party claims authorities have barred Khan from meeting his lawyers or family members during this period.
Critical Remarks Trigger Strict Restrictions
The restrictions followed Khan's critical comments about Pakistan's army chief. After meeting his sister in jail on December 4, Khan described Marshal Asim Munir as "a mentally unstable person." This remark appears to have triggered the current isolation measures against the former leader.
Khan, now 73 years old, has remained incarcerated since August 2023. His arrest came after his government was toppled in April 2022. Since that time, multiple legal cases have been registered against the former cricket star turned politician.
PTI Condemns Treatment as Cruel and Inhuman
PTI officials emphasized that prolonged solitary confinement represents harmful treatment under international law. They stated this practice could constitute cruel and inhuman treatment when imposed without clear justification or proper safeguards. The party further alleged that Khan faces complete isolation in his cell.
"Even the basic necessities guaranteed under the jail manual have been denied to him," PTI representatives declared. They criticized the government for failing to explain why Khan cannot meet his legal counsel. This right represents a constitutional guarantee for any prisoner, let alone a former prime minister.
Government Cites Security Concerns
The current PML-N government initially pointed to rule violations during visits by Khan's family and party leaders. Authorities then extended the visitation ban until February 8, 2026. Government officials cited "national security threats" as justification for this lengthy restriction period.
PTI has demanded "immediate access for Imran Khan's lawyers and family members to him in jail." The party insists that denying these basic rights violates both national laws and international standards for prisoner treatment.
Political Tensions Continue After Elections
Following the February 8 general elections in 2024, Khan accused rival parties of stealing his mandate. He specifically targeted the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) and Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), calling them "mandate thieves." Khan alleged these parties manipulated election results to gain power.
The PTI has organized multiple demonstrations demanding Khan's release from prison. The party has announced plans for a major protest on February 8, 2026. This demonstration will specifically target what PTI calls the "stolen mandate" from the general elections.
Political observers note that Khan's continued imprisonment and isolation have heightened tensions in Pakistan's already volatile political landscape. The situation raises questions about prisoner rights and due process in the country's justice system.
