Concerns are mounting over the whereabouts and well-being of former Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan, who remains inaccessible to his legal team, party leaders, and even family members. In response to this lack of information and escalating worries, the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party has announced a series of protests. Demonstrations are scheduled to take place outside the Islamabad High Court and Rawalpindi’s Adiala jail on Tuesday.
These planned protests are proceeding despite the government’s imposition of a ban on public gatherings and a significant restriction on jail visitation rights. The situation has fueled intense speculation, with reports indicating that Imran Khan’s sisters have attempted to reach Adiala jail, where thousands of supporters have reportedly gathered amid fears for his safety.
The Pakistani government has responded to the growing unease and circulating rumors, some even suggesting his death, by enforcing Section 144 in Islamabad and Rawalpindi. This measure, effective for three days from December 1st to 3rd, restricts public assembly and is aimed at maintaining public order and preventing any untoward incidents.
Despite these restrictions, jail authorities at Adiala prison stated last week that Imran Khan remains in their custody, is in good health, and is receiving adequate medical attention. They have dismissed all rumors regarding his transfer or deteriorating health as baseless.
However, PTI leaders are demanding greater transparency and clarification regarding Khan’s condition and are urging authorities to facilitate meetings between him and his family. The party cites instances where Khan’s sisters have been denied access, raising further questions. Opposition lawmakers have vowed to protest outside the Islamabad High Court and then proceed to Adiala jail, citing alleged non-compliance with court orders by both institutions. The friction had previously escalated when the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister was denied a meeting with Khan for the eighth time, leading to a sit-in protest.