In a significant development, Aleema Khan, the sister of imprisoned former Prime Minister Imran Khan, announced plans to seek intervention from international institutions regarding the numerous cases against the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder.
Speaking to journalists outside Adiala Jail in Rawalpindi on Thursday, Aleema said, “We have no option but to escalate these cases to the international level.” She emphasized Pakistan’s commitments under the United Nations convention, stating they would approach global bodies to highlight the issue.
Notably, a UN human rights working group previously declared Khan’s detention “arbitrary and in violation of international law.” The Geneva-based UN Working Group on Arbitrary Detention recommended his immediate release, along with compensation and reparations.
Allegations of Mistreatment
Aleema accused the government and jail authorities of mistreating the PTI founder, highlighting that even his physician was barred from meeting him. “This is torture,” she said.
She further criticized the erratic visitation schedule at the jail, alleging that meetings were often delayed until late at night. Responding to a question about the £190 million Al-Qadir Trust case, Aleema remarked, “When this case reaches the high court, the entire world will see what a farce it is.”
Despite the challenges, Aleema expressed confidence in Imran Khan’s acquittal, adding that he remained steadfast in his commitment to face all cases against him.
PTI Lawyer Demands Judicial Probe
PTI lawyer Shoaib Shaheen reiterated the party’s demand for a judicial probe into events surrounding November 26, when PTI claimed at least 13 supporters were killed during protests in Islamabad. He also criticized the government for preventing PTI’s negotiation committee from meeting Khan, stating that Aleema herself was denied entry to the jail.
Shaheen questioned the sincerity of the government’s dialogue efforts, pointing out that discussions could only be fruitful if held with those in real power.
Stalled Negotiations
Negotiations between the PTI and the government, which resumed after months of political deadlock, remain paused due to the absence of National Assembly Speaker Sardar Ayaz Sadiq. The two sides had agreed that PTI would present a charter of demands in the next session after consulting Khan, but further progress depends on his availability for consultation.
Global Parliamentary Body to Observe Trials
In a related development, PTI lawyer Khalid Yousuf Chaudhry revealed that the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU), an international parliamentary body, has decided to send a representative to monitor the trials against Khan.
“The IPU representative has been briefed on the judicial proceedings in the £190 million case and the Toshakhana cases,” Chaudhry said. He added that details about legal flaws and violations of fair trial rights were also shared, along with updates on the May 9 events and the GHQ case.
Chaudhry noted that an IPU observer attempted to visit Adiala Jail in November 2023 but was denied access.
Khan’s Legal Challenges
The 71-year-old former premier, who has been imprisoned since August last year following his conviction in the Toshakhana case, is facing multiple charges, including the diplomatic cable case, Toshakhana references, and allegations related to the GHQ attack.
As international attention grows, Khan’s legal team continues to advocate for justice and transparency in the high-profile cases against him.
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