The Supreme Court of Pakistan on Friday ordered that former prime minister Imran Khan be transferred from the Kot Lakhpat jail to a medical facility, citing serious health concerns. The ruling also permits members of his family to visit him during the transfer process.
Legal background
Khan has been incarcerated since May 2023 on multiple corruption charges, including alleged misuse of government funds and illegal foreign currency transactions. He and his Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party maintain that the cases are a form of political persecution aimed at sidelining a popular opposition leader. BBC News and other outlets note that the former prime minister has repeatedly described the prosecutions as "politically motivated".
Court order and medical transfer
The apex court’s decision was issued after a petition filed by Khan’s legal team highlighted his deteriorating health, which they said required immediate professional care unavailable within the prison. Reuters reported that the order specifically directs prison authorities to arrange a "safe and secure" transfer to a hospital of their choosing, while allowing Khan’s relatives to accompany him for the journey.
"Move Imran Khan to hospital," the court instructed, underscoring the urgency of his medical needs.
According to Al Jazeera, the court also ordered that the prison allow regular family visits during Khan’s hospital stay, a stipulation that had previously been denied. The precise location of the medical facility has not been disclosed, but officials indicated that it meets the standards required for high‑profile detainees.
Political reactions
The PTI welcomed the ruling, calling it a "victory for justice and humanity". Party spokespersons told France 24 that the move would allow Khan to receive the treatment he needs and would also enable his legal team to better coordinate his defense. The government, which has overseen Khan’s detention, has not publicly commented on the transfer, though The Independent noted that prison officials are expected to comply with the court’s order without delay.
Legal analysts, cited by DW.com, see the decision as part of an ongoing "access battle" over Khan’s ability to prepare his defense while in custody. The Supreme Court’s intervention highlights the judiciary’s role in balancing security concerns with the health rights of inmates, especially high‑profile political figures.
Human rights organisations have previously urged Pakistani authorities to ensure adequate medical care for detainees. While no official statement has been released by such groups regarding the latest order, the court’s directive aligns with international standards that obligate states to provide necessary health services to prisoners.
The transfer comes as several of Khan’s cases continue to move through the courts, with verdicts pending on the most serious charges. The outcome of these proceedings could have significant implications for Pakistan’s political landscape, as Khan remains a central figure in the opposition ahead of the next general election.
