Jailed former Pakistan PM Imran Khan moved to hospital for treatment

Former Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan was transferred from Adiala jail to Shifa International Hospital in Islamabad under heavy security, according to local media reports, after complaints were raised about his declining health.

The transfer followed an order from a three-judge Supreme Court panel, which had directed that Khan be brought to hospital within 48 hours so physicians could examine him. In their ruling, the judges said they were mindful of their constitutional and legal duty to protect a prisoner's life, health, dignity and security, and noted that an eye specialist would take part in his treatment.

Lawyers for the 73-year-old former cricketer-turned-politician say he suffers from several health issues, including impaired eyesight, and has been denied access to specialist medical care. In February, his legal team said he had only 15% of his vision remaining in his right eye, blaming inaction by prison authorities — a claim the government has rejected.

Both the judges and officials from Khan's party, Tehreek-e-Insaf, urged supporters not to gather near the hospital, warning that doing so would violate the court's order.

Khan, who once captained Pakistan's national cricket team, led the country as prime minister between 2018 and 2022. He has been behind bars since August 2023, facing more than 100 legal cases covering allegations from leaking state secrets to illegally selling state gifts — charges he has consistently dismissed as politically driven. Late last year, Khan and his wife, Bushra Bibi, were each sentenced to 17 years in prison.

His imprisonment sparked widespread protests among his supporters, which authorities responded to with a crackdown. Despite being jailed, Khan continues to hold significant influence in Pakistani politics and retains a large base of support.