ISLAMABAD: The authorities on Tuesday kept Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi and Imran Khan’s sister Aleema Khan from meeting the incarcerated former prime minister in Adiala jail once again.
Speaking to media persons outside the jail in Rawalpindi, the KP CM claimed that the authorities wanted to “do something” to Mr Khan, which was the reason they were not allowing them to meet him.
He reiterated their sole demand was that Mr Khan be moved to the Shifa International Hospital for treatment.
Aleema Khan told reporters they did not intend to strike a deal with the authorities, and also rejected reports of a meeting between a former army chief and Mr Khan as ‘politically motivated claims’. She said reports about such meetings are circulated whenever political tensions are on the rise.
Rejecting speculation about political negotiations for personal gain, she said that the only acceptable “deal” would be the restoration of an independent judiciary and the holding of free and fair elections. She argued that judicial independence was essential to ensuring transparent democratic processes.
According to Ms Khan, the objective of their current political efforts was the release of Imran Khan, and that any elected representative who genuinely struggled for Imran’s release would be regarded as a ‘hero’ by the party supporters. She also said that it was their constitutional right to visit the PTI chief, vowing that they would continue visiting the prison to exert pressure on the powers-that-be.
Commenting on the security arrangements around the jail, Aleema Khan claimed that road closures and restrictions were showing the government’s fear of public support for Imran Khan. She alleged that authorities were making efforts to stop discussions regarding Imran’s health.
“Governments go for oppression when they lack public support, while popular movements draw strength from the backing of the people. Attempts are being made to silence the PTI founder but he remains committed to his principles and is prepared to make personal sacrifices for his cause,” she claimed. The ex-PM’s sister said the current situation did not reflect legal or constitutional norms, adding that the family of Imran and party leaders would continue efforts for an independent judiciary and a free media.
Aleema Khan also spoke about the meeting between PTI interim chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan and the interior minister, Mohsin Naqvi. She said Barrister Gohar had confirmed the meeting and conveyed assurances regarding access to the PTI founder. However, she said such promises did not materialise and suggested that priority should be given to proper medical treatment for Imran Khan. She asserted that if any political consultations or meetings were being held on behalf of the party leadership, they should be conducted transparently and communicated openly to party members.
Published in Dawn, June 3rd, 2026
