Could Pakistan's jailed ex-PM Imran Khan make a new deal?

In a recent development, Pakistan's Supreme Court ordered the transfer of former Prime Minister Imran Khan to a private hospital for medical evaluation, following concerns over his health while incarcerated in Rawalpindi's Adiala jail. Khan, a 73-year-old leader of the opposition Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party, has been serving a 14-year sentence on corruption charges he claims are politically motivated since August 2023.

Khan's family and supporters have repeatedly raised health concerns about the jailed former premier, while his political party remains popular despite his imprisonment. The party's candidates performed well in the February 2024 election, suggesting Khan's continued influence. However, the government has expressed its intention to challenge the Supreme Court's decision, stating that a convicted prisoner should be treated in a jail or public hospital, not a private facility.

Legal experts note that Khan has not been granted bail or had his convictions suspended, meaning he remains a prisoner. Local media reports indicate that Khan's health issues, including poor eyesight, fluctuating blood pressure, and anxiety, have worsened due to solitary confinement in jail. The PTI party and Khan's sister, Dr. Uzma Khan, have criticized the lack of access to specialist medical care for their former leader.

The Supreme Court has also appointed a medical board, including Khan's sister and personal physician, to oversee his treatment. Analysts suggest that the court's intervention may reflect the seriousness of Khan's health concerns and the need for transparent medical care. However, the future political implications of Khan's continued imprisonment remain uncertain, with some analysts suggesting that a lasting political settlement with the military establishment may be necessary.