Pakistan Opposition Ramps Up Protests Over Imran Khan’s Health in Jail

Pakistan Opposition Ramps Up Protests Over Imran Khan’s Health in Jail
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Opposition parties in Pakistan announced plans on Friday to stage a sit-in outside parliament in Islamabad, citing concerns over the deteriorating health of former prime minister Imran Khan, who has been imprisoned since 2023.

According to The Nation, the decision was taken during a meeting of opposition leaders, including figures from major religious and political parties. Protest organizers said the demonstration would continue until authorities agree to transfer Khan to a specialized hospital and improve his medical care.

The escalation follows an order issued on Thursday by the Supreme Court of Pakistan, directing authorities to form a medical board to examine Khan after he reported severe vision loss in his right eye. His party said doctors must assess him before mid-February 2026.

Khan’s family has said he was diagnosed with a serious retinal vein condition that could lead to permanent blindness if left untreated. The diagnosis has heightened concern among supporters, who argue that continued detention without specialized care endangers his life.

The 73-year-old former leader is serving multiple prison sentences following convictions on corruption and other charges, which he and his supporters describe as politically motivated. The dispute has added pressure on the government amid Pakistan’s ongoing political polarization since Khan’s removal from office in 2022.