Former Prime Minister of Pakistan Imran Khan remains at the centre of the country’s political and legal crisis as courts continue to hear multiple cases against him, while protests by his supporters keep pressure on the government.
Imran Khan, who has been in custody since 2023, was recently handed a 17-year prison sentence along with his wife Bushra Bibi in a corruption case linked to the alleged misuse and sale of state gifts, commonly referred to as the Toshakhana-II case. The court ruled that the former prime minister violated trust by failing to declare and lawfully manage gifts received during his time in office.
Khan has denied all charges, calling the verdict politically motivated. His legal team has confirmed that an appeal will be filed, arguing that the trial lacked transparency and due process.
PTI Calls for Protests
Following the verdict, Khan’s political party, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), urged supporters to stage peaceful protests across the country. Demonstrations were reported in several major cities, with party workers demanding Khan’s release and accusing authorities of targeting opposition leadership through legal pressure.
Security forces were deployed in sensitive areas, particularly near Adiala Jail in Rawalpindi, where Khan is currently being held. Police officials stated that measures were taken to prevent unrest and maintain public order.
Family Access and Jail Concerns
Tensions escalated further when members of Khan’s family, including his sisters, reported difficulties in meeting him at the jail. This led to brief sit-ins by family members and PTI supporters outside the prison, drawing public attention to concerns about Khan’s detention conditions.
Authorities, however, stated that jail procedures were being followed in accordance with regulations and denied claims of mistreatment.
Other Legal Cases Still Ongoing
In addition to the recent sentence, Imran Khan faces several other legal cases, including matters related to protests and unrest that occurred on May 9. Courts have granted interim bail extensions in some of these cases, pushing hearings to early 2026.
Legal experts say the overlapping cases mean Khan is likely to remain entangled in court proceedings for the foreseeable future, even as appeals are prepared.
Political Impact
The situation has deepened divisions in Pakistan’s political landscape. Supporters view Khan’s prosecution as an attempt to sideline a popular opposition leader, while government officials maintain that the judiciary is acting independently and that accountability must apply equally to all.
Analysts warn that prolonged instability could affect governance and economic confidence, especially as Pakistan continues to navigate financial challenges and political uncertainty.
What Comes Next
Imran Khan’s future now largely depends on higher court rulings and the outcome of pending appeals. Until then, the former prime minister remains a central figure in Pakistan’s evolving political narrative, with both supporters and critics closely watching each development.
