ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI) has warned the federal government over what it called “criminal negligence” in the medical treatment of former prime minister Imran Khan and indicated it may launch a large-scale movement for his release after Eid.
Speaking at a press conference on Friday, PTI leaders repeated their demand that the party founder be immediately shifted to Shifa International Hospital for medical care, saying any further delay could endanger his health.
They said the party had repeatedly sought permission to ensure proper treatment for Khan but claimed the government had turned down those requests.
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi, who appeared alongside senior party leaders, warned that PTI would not tolerate what he described as the government’s attitude and said the party was prepared to launch a strong movement to secure the release of its founder.
Afridi added that PTI had slowed its political activities during the holy month of Ramadan but insisted the party’s preparations and resolve remained intact.
He criticised the federal government’s handling of Khan’s health and referred to ongoing cases against the PTI founder as politically motivated. Afridi argued that as a former prime minister, Khan deserved proper medical attention and accused the authorities of denying access to his personal doctors and family members, which he said violated basic rights and legal norms.
PTI leader Junaid Akbar Khan also spoke at the event, alleging a wider political crackdown against the party. He pointed to the disqualification of PTI senators and restrictions on party workers, while also expressing concern about Pakistan’s increasingly tense relations with the Taliban administration in Afghanistan.
According to him, the continued treatment of the PTI founder could further intensify political tensions that the current government might struggle to manage.
Senior PTI leader and lawyer Babar Awan criticised the secrecy surrounding Khan’s medical condition, calling it unacceptable and warning that those responsible would be held accountable if any harm came to him due to inadequate care.
Former finance minister Taimur Jhagra said PTI remained committed to defending the Constitution and claimed the government’s approach was widening the gap between the public and state institutions.
Meanwhile, PTI lawmaker Shahid Khattak said the party was not politicising a health matter but was concerned about the risk of permanent damage to Khan’s health if he did not receive proper medical treatment.