Pakistan's Supreme Court has ordered that former Prime Minister Imran Khan be moved from jail to a hospital within 48 hours, citing constitutional obligations to safeguard the health of prisoners. The ruling comes amid complaints from Khan's legal team about his deteriorating health and lack of access to specialized medical care.
A three-judge panel directed that Khan be transferred to Shifa International Hospital in Islamabad for examination by physicians, including an eye specialist. The court also granted him weekly meetings with family and telephone calls with his sons.
Khan, 73, has been imprisoned since August 2023 on corruption charges, which he maintains are politically motivated. His lawyers have expressed concerns about his vision, alleging he has only 15% sight remaining in his right eye due to a lack of timely medical attention, a claim disputed by the government. Zulfikar Bukhari, an adviser to Khan, told AFP that the delay in medical care has worsened his health.
Khan, who previously captained Pakistan's national cricket team, served as prime minister from 2018 to 2022. He faces over 100 cases, including charges related to leaking state secrets and selling state gifts. He and his wife, Bushra Bibi, were sentenced to 17 years late last year. His incarceration led to widespread protests by supporters, met with a government crackdown.
Despite his imprisonment, Khan remains a significant figure in Pakistani politics. The court has cautioned supporters against gathering outside the hospital during his transfer to prevent any breach of the order.