Pakistan: Former PM Khan moved to private hospital
Khan's supporters say his health has deteriorated during more than three years in prison since being removed from office in 2022.
Former Prime Minister Imran Khan was transferred from Adiala Jail to Shifa International Hospital in Islamabad on Friday, following a Supreme Court order. The move, which occurred within 48 hours, was initially seen as a step towards easing tensions between Khan's party and the powerful military establishment. However, Khan was reportedly moved back to prison later that same day.
A team of doctors, including an ophthalmologist, a cardiologist, and a physician, conducted a thorough examination of Khan and declared him medically fit. This decision came after his supporters gathered near the hospital, anticipating his arrival. Security was deployed to maintain order in anticipation of the former prime minister's return.
The transfer was met with mixed reactions from government officials. While some, like Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar, expressed concerns about the legality of the move, others, including Parliamentary Affairs Minister Tariq Fazal Chaudhry, stated that the government would fully comply with the Supreme Court's ruling.
Khan has been in prison since 2023, following his removal from office in a no-confidence vote. He was convicted on multiple charges, including allegations of an unlawful marriage and corruption, and was sentenced to 17 years in prison. Both Khan and his wife deny the charges, with Khan claiming that they are politically motivated.
Despite his conviction, Khan's Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party still maintains significant support across key provinces in Pakistan. His arrest in early 2023 sparked nationwide protests, leading to hundreds of arrests.
Written by urgent.news from DW News's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
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