Islamabad: Pakistan's Supreme Court has mandated the relocation of former Prime Minister Imran Khan, aged 73, from his current incarceration to Shifa International Hospital. The decision was made in response to pressing appeals from the Pakistan Tehrik-e-Insaf (PTI) party and Khan's family, who voiced grave concerns about his health, especially the deterioration of his vision in his right eye while in custody.
According to Thai News Agency, Khan has been detained since August 2023 on several charges, including allegations related to government gifts and an illegal marriage, following his impeachment in 2022. Throughout his detention, Khan has consistently proclaimed his innocence, attributing the charges to political vendettas. While some of these cases have been suspended or dismissed pending appeal, his health issues in prison have been a persistent cause for alarm, prompting demands for improved medical care earlier this year.
The PTI party, despite having its political symbols revoked ahead of the 2024 elections, continues to enjoy substantial support across vital provinces. A spokesperson from the party described the court's decision as a hopeful development, expressing optimism that Khan would receive the necessary medical attention to facilitate his recovery.