Khalilzad Endorses Khan’s Imminent Release Amid 14-Year Sentence and Political Upheaval
Former PM Imran Khan, serving a 14-year sentence on corruption charges, may be released soon amid national reconciliation calls, with US envoy Khalilzad expressing hope.
Pakistan’s political landscape remains deeply unsettled as former Prime Minister Imran Khan’s detention continues to spark controversy. In a recent development, former U.S. Special Representative for Afghanistan Reconciliation, Zalmay Khalilzad, expressed optimism regarding Khan’s potential release, according to an article by Khaama Press.
Khalilzad described such a move as beneficial for Pakistan, suggesting that releasing Khan could help ease political tensions and foster national reconciliation during this critical period. The remarks come amid mounting pressure on the government to address allegations that Khan’s prolonged incarceration is driven by political motives rather than genuine legal concerns. Critics argue that Khan’s detention has become a focal point for debates over judicial impartiality and political interference in state affairs.
Imran Khan, once celebrated as a cricket star and leader of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), has been imprisoned since August 2023 amid charges ranging from corruption to inciting violence. Facing over 100 allegations in total, Khan has maintained that the cases are fabricated for political gain. Notably, recent court proceedings resulted in a 14-year sentence for Khan in a land corruption case, while his wife, Bushra Bibi, received a seven-year sentence. These legal measures, reported by international news agencies including the BBC and NBC News, have intensified calls for a reassessment of the judicial process in Pakistan.
Reactions to Khan’s imprisonment have been swift. His sons, Suleman and Qasim, have publicly appealed to international leaders, urging intervention to secure their father’s release and to address what they describe as inhumane prison conditions. The persistent advocacy by PTI party members and supporters reflects widespread frustration with perceived political repression. In a related case, former Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi, also aligned with PTI, was transferred to a hospital due to deteriorating health, further fueling public outcry. These developments have underscored calls for judicial reform and greater transparency in addressing political cases.
Analysts note that Khan’s release might significantly reshape Pakistan’s future, subject to thorough judicial approval.
