ISLAMABAD: The sons of incarcerated PTI founder Imran Khan, Kasim and Sulaiman, have alleged that their father is being kept in isolation in jail, calling it “clear torture tactics.” The remarks were made during an interview with British journalist Mehdi Hasan, with a short preview available publicly on Zeteo’s website. The full interview remains behind a paywall.
The sons expressed serious concerns about the conditions in which their father is being held, stating that court-mandated prison visits have been blocked. They highlighted that Imran is confined in a cell measuring only six feet by eight inches, making it barely enough to stand. Kasim described the situation, saying, “The conditions are awful. He is washing himself in brown, murky water, and the food he receives is dreadful. To be a prince is far from it.”
Kasim and Sulaiman also shared that the former prime minister has been prevented from interacting with others, including prison guards, as part of efforts to isolate him completely. Sulaiman added that their last conversation with Imran was at the end of July, despite Pakistani law mandating weekly calls. The brothers also recalled visiting him in November 2022 after an assassination attempt on his life.
The interview addressed Imran’s public statements against military leadership, with Sulaiman asserting that speaking out is part of his father’s character. Kasim added that Imran has always been a man of faith, trusting that God will protect him.
Meanwhile, government officials strongly denied the claims. Mosharraf Zaidi, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s spokesperson for foreign media, stated that Imran is not in a jail cell but in designated living quarters with gym facilities, outdoor space, a cook, and medical supervision. Zaidi added that Imran spends six hours a day outside his sleeping area and that his children have the right to visit, with visas being issued upon application.
Minister of State for Interior Tallal Chaudhry also dismissed the allegations, warning Imran’s family and supporters not to play the “sympathy card.” He highlighted that the former premier has access to all necessary facilities, including communication with his sons totaling over 14 hours.
The controversy comes ahead of the sons’ planned visit to Pakistan in January. While the family claims restrictions, officials insist that they are prepared to facilitate the visit in accordance with legal provisions.
This dispute adds to the ongoing debate over the treatment of high-profile political prisoners in Pakistan, drawing attention from human rights observers and international media alike.
