ISLAMABAD, Nov 28 — Rumours that former Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan has died in detention have sparked fresh outrage, with his son demanding proof of life and urging his immediate release.
Kasim Khan said his father has been held for 845 days and, for the past six weeks, allegedly kept in solitary confinement in a so-called “death cell” with no family contact. “His sisters have been barred from meetings despite court orders. No phone calls, no visits, and no information about his well-being. My brother and I have had no contact with him whatsoever,” Kasim wrote on X.
He called the isolation “deliberate” and accused the government of hiding Khan’s condition. “Authorities will bear full legal and moral responsibility for any harm,” he warned, appealing to the international community and human rights groups for intervention. He demanded confirmation that his father is alive, family access, an end to “inhumane isolation,” and release for a political leader “imprisoned solely for political reasons.”
Imran Khan’s sister Aleema Khanum also said the family has repeatedly been denied court-mandated visits.
Adiala Jail authorities dismissed the claims on Thursday, asserting that Khan is in “completely good health” and that the PTI leadership has been informed. The administration rejected reports that he had been moved or harmed, calling them “baseless.” “Imran Khan is in Adiala Jail and is healthy. Social media rumours of his transfer are unfounded,” the statement read.
Khan has been in custody since August 2023, facing multiple cases he and his party describe as politically motivated. In January, he and his wife were convicted in a corruption case, receiving 14 and 7-year sentences, respectively.
Tensions escalated this week when PTI supporters and Khan’s sisters staged a sit-in outside Adiala Jail. Thousands joined the protest, with some attempting to breach the premises. Police later assured Aleema Khan that a meeting would be arranged. Defence Minister Khawaja Asif said Khan is receiving better treatment in jail compared to previous incarcerations.
