The disappearance of former Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan from public and family contact has ignited significant tension across Pakistan, prompting his party, the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), to call for nationwide protests. Supporters are expected to rally outside the Islamabad High Court and Rawalpindi’s Adiala jail on Tuesday, demanding answers about their leader’s status.
Despite a government ban on public gatherings and strict limitations on jail visits, PTI activists are determined to voice their concerns. There are unconfirmed reports of thousands of Khan’s followers converging near Adiala jail, with his sisters also reportedly attempting to gain access, amidst growing anxieties about his well-being. Whispers of Khan’s deteriorating health and even death have been circulating, leading authorities to impose Section 144 in Islamabad and Rawalpindi.
This order, enforced from December 1st to 3rd, aims to curb public gatherings and ensure peace and security. Jail officials, however, have issued statements asserting that Imran Khan is secure within Adiala jail, is in good health, and is receiving necessary medical care. They have vehemently denied any rumors suggesting otherwise or any transfer from the facility.
PTI leaders remain unconvinced and are pressing for verifiable updates and family access. The repeated denial of visitation rights for Khan’s sisters has become a major point of contention, fueling the party’s resolve. Lawmakers have announced plans to gather at the High Court before heading to Adiala jail, accusing the judiciary and prison administration of failing to uphold court directives. This discontent follows an earlier incident where the Chief Minister of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa staged a protest after being barred from meeting Khan for the eighth time.
Imran Khan has been incarcerated since August 2023, facing a multitude of legal challenges, including corruption and terrorism charges, following his removal from office in 2022.