Pakistan’s jailed former prime minister Imran Khan will undergo treatment at a specialized medical facility after reporting significant vision loss in one eye, a senior government minister confirmed Saturday.
The development follows a directive from the Supreme Court of Pakistan ordering a comprehensive medical evaluation amid mounting concern over Khan’s health.
Government Confirms Specialist Evaluation
Information Minister Attaullah Tarar said on social media that leading ophthalmologists would examine Khan as part of ongoing treatment that began in late January.
Khan, 73, has reportedly experienced partial vision loss in his right eye. His lawyer, Salman Safdar, told the Supreme Court earlier this week that the former premier had lost approximately 85% of sight in that eye.
Tarar did not disclose the location or timing of the medical procedure but said a detailed report would be submitted to the court. He also urged the public to avoid speculation or politicizing the issue.
Court Orders Medical Panel, Family Contact
The Supreme Court instructed authorities to arrange an evaluation by a panel of doctors and to facilitate a phone call between Khan and his sons before Feb. 16.
Khan’s sister, Aleema Khan, later confirmed that the call had taken place, describing him as “extremely happy” to hear from his children after a prolonged separation. She added that the family expects treatment to proceed under the supervision of his personal physicians.
However, Khan’s relatives criticized the government for allegedly failing to consult them before arranging medical care. They have called for family members and his private doctor to be present during any procedures.
Political Fallout and Protests
Supporters of Khan’s party, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), have staged demonstrations in Islamabad and other cities, demanding that he be transferred from prison to a hospital for advanced treatment. Several PTI lawmakers and allies are holding a sit-in outside parliament to press for improved medical access.
Khan has been incarcerated since 2023 following a conviction in a corruption case. He was removed from office in April 2022 through a parliamentary no-confidence vote. The former cricket star has alleged that his ouster was the result of a U.S.-backed conspiracy involving political rivals and Pakistan’s former army chief — claims denied by Washington, the military and his opponents.
Continuing Political Influence
Despite legal battles, Khan remains a powerful political figure. PTI performed strongly in the February 2024 parliamentary elections but failed to secure a majority in the National Assembly. The party has alleged electoral irregularities, an accusation rejected by the government.
The latest health concerns have reignited debate over Khan’s treatment in custody and added another layer of tension to Pakistan’s already polarized political landscape.
