Pakistan: PTI Announces Protests In Twin Cities As Concerns Mount Over Imran Khan’s Inaccessibility

Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) announced fresh demonstrations in Islamabad and Rawalpindi on Tuesday, citing growing alarm over the inaccessibility of party chief Imran Khan.

The former prime minister has remained out of reach for party leadership and his own family, prompting widespread speculation and unrest.

In response to escalating tensions, authorities enforced Section 144 in both Islamabad and Rawalpindi from 1 to 3 December.

The order, signed by Deputy Commissioner Dr Hassan Waqar Cheema, bans public gatherings and restricts visitation rights.

Officials stated that the restrictions are necessary to maintain public order and address an ‘imminent threat’ within District Rawalpindi.

Rumours about Khan’s deteriorating health and even claims of his death have intensified public anxiety.

This surge in speculation compelled the government to impose additional security measures and limit movement around key areas.

PTI Criticises Authorities

PTI leader Asad Qaiser confirmed that opposition lawmakers from both parliamentary houses would gather outside the Islamabad High Court before marching to Adiala Jail.

He criticised both the IHC and jail administration, stating:

“We have decided to hold protests because the IHC has not implemented its order, and the Adiala jail administration is refusing to follow the court’s directives.”

The confrontation deepened last week when the Chief Minister of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa staged a sit-in outside Adiala Jail after being denied a meeting with Khan for the eighth time.

Khan’s family members have also been barred from visiting him for several weeks, heightening concerns about his well-being.

Officials from Rawalpindi’s Adiala Jail dismissed speculation regarding Khan’s health or possible transfer.

In a statement released on Wednesday, jail authorities insisted: “There is no truth to reports about his transfer from Adiala Jail. He is fully healthy and receiving complete medical attention.”

The officials dismissed the circulating rumours as baseless and emphasised that they were safeguarding Khan’s welfare.

Imran Khan has remained in prison since August 2023 and faces numerous cases, including charges of corruption and terrorism, after parliament removed him from office through a no-confidence vote in 2022.

PTI continues to demand clarity on Khan’s condition and insists that authorities allow his family to meet him.

Khan’s sisters, who have not been permitted to see him in recent weeks, have raised questions about his whereabouts, contributing to a climate of uncertainty.

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