Sister of Imprisoned Pakistani Leader Imran Khan Arrested Ahead of Planned Protests

Aleema Khanum, the sister of former Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan, has been arrested ahead of planned protests demanding her brother's release from prison. Khanum was reportedly detained on Sunday afternoon, with authorities alleging she mobilized her brother's supporters through social media and public meetings.

She is expected to remain in detention for 30 days. Her arrest comes just days before planned protests on September 27, where demonstrators intend to march on the capital city, Islamabad, to advocate for Imran Khan's freedom.

Imran Khan, who led Pakistan from 2018 to 2022, was sentenced to three years in prison in 2023 for failing to declare money earned from selling gifts received during his premiership. He maintains his innocence, asserting that the charges are politically motivated. The former cricket captain faces over 100 charges, including allegations of selling state secrets and gifts.

The Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party, Imran Khan's political organization, has condemned Aleema Khanum's arrest, labeling it an "illegal detention" and an "abduction." Her son, Shahrez Khan, has publicly demanded her immediate disclosure and safe return.

Authorities have confirmed Khanum's arrest and stated she will be held at Kot Lakhpat prison in Lahore. However, her family has reported having no contact with her since her detention.

This development follows concerns about Imran Khan's health and living conditions in prison. Reports indicated that he was moved from solitary confinement to a hospital following appeals from his family regarding his well-being. His sons have previously described his prison quarters as a "death cell" with unsanitary conditions and alleged that he was subjected to "psychological torture tactics" due to prolonged isolation. International figures, including 14 former cricket greats, have issued humanitarian appeals for improved treatment.

Khan's sons have expressed fears of an assassination attempt on their father, drawing parallels to the death of former Egyptian President Mohamed Morsi in detention. They have also criticized the level of support provided by the British government, seeking assistance in potentially visiting Pakistan and arranging UK support to ensure their safety.

Imran Khan, a renowned cricketer before entering politics, led Pakistan to World Cup victory in 1992. His supporters have frequently protested his imprisonment since his initial arrest in May 2023. His political career saw him fall out with the military establishment, leading to his removal from power via a no-confidence vote in 2022.