Pakistan top court orders ex-PM Imran Khan be moved to hospital from jail

The Supreme Court of Pakistan has ordered former Prime Minister Imran Khan to be transferred from jail to hospital, according to his Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf party. This decision follows longstanding concerns about the health of the cricketer-turned-politician, who has been incarcerated since August 2023. The court's ruling comes after his sons repeatedly raised alarm bells regarding his deteriorating health, including the loss of significant vision in his right eye while imprisoned.

PTI spokesperson Zulfikar Bukhari expressed relief that the order was issued sooner, noting that it would have prevented further deterioration of Khan's physical condition. The court has directed Khan to be moved to Shifa International Hospital within 48 hours, with a stay until September 16, as confirmed by Khan's spokesperson, Naeem Haider Panjutha.

Since losing power in a no-confidence vote, Khan has faced multiple legal cases, including allegations of state gifts misuse and an unlawful marriage. Some convictions have been suspended or overturned, with appeals still pending. Despite these legal challenges, Khan maintains his innocence. International cricket stars had previously voiced deep concern over his prison conditions in February, calling for improved treatment.

Khan's Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf party won power in 2018 and maintains a significant voter base across key provinces. However, the party lost its election symbol ahead of the 2024 vote, forcing candidates to run independently.