Supporters of jailed ex-PM Imran Khan march to Pakistan capital

Supporters of former Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan are marching to the capital Islamabad, demanding his release from jail. Approximately 5,000 people took part in the march from the city of Lakki Marwat on Sunday, carrying flags of Khan's Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party. A truck with a large billboard reading "release Imran Khan" was also part of the procession. Concerns have risen recently over Khan's health, with his supporters asserting he cannot receive adequate medical care.

The march, initially planned for last week, was delayed to accommodate talks between the government and PTI leaders. However, these discussions concluded without success, resulting in the march resuming on Monday. Provinces Chief Minister Sohail Afridi anticipates that the march will progress toward a town 80km west of Islamabad by Thursday, covering every region of Pakistan and transforming every square into an active political hub.

The demonstrators have taken a brief rest in Karak city and are expected to continue their journey around midday on Monday. Islamabad authorities have mobilized shipping containers to obstruct crucial routes leading to the capital. The PTI contends that their appeal for access to Khan and an immediate medical assessment was rejected by authorities.

The party also alleged that Khan was granted an examination and treatment in a state-run hospital in August, following health concerns, although he was subsequently deemed "medically fit."

In August, Khan was briefly moved from jail to a state-run hospital for a medical evaluation and treatment due to health complaints. Medical professionals subsequently concluded that he was "medically fit." This intervention was the most substantial respite Khan has experienced from court rulings since his incarceration in 2023 on corruption allegations, which he claims are politically motivated.

Khan's family and the PTI, however, criticized authorities for contravening a court order mandating a medical examination by physicians at a specific private hospital.

On September 20, Khan's sister Aleema Khanum was arrested in Lahore, accused of mobilizing people to generate unrest and raise objectionable slogans. Khan, a former captain of the Pakistan national cricket team, held the position of Prime Minister from 2018 to 2022. He was imprisoned in August 2023 and has been charged in over 100 cases, encompassing offenses such as leaking state secrets and selling state gifts—all of which he contends are politically motivated. Khan and his wife Bushra Bibi were sentenced to 17 years in prison at the end of last year.

Khan's imprisonment has sparked widespread protests from supporters, who faced a crackdown by authorities. Despite his detention, Khan remains a prominent figure in Pakistani politics, with a substantial following. Former cricket captains have made repeated appeals to Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, urging the release of Khan and the provision of appropriate medical care.