ISLAMABAD — Former Pakistan prime minister Imran Khan’s sons, Kasim and Suleiman, have announced their intention to travel to Pakistan in January to see their father, whom they say is being held in what they described as a “death cell” inside a jail in the country.
In an interview with international media, the two brothers spoke about the harrowing conditions in which their father is being detained and their efforts to organise their visit after being told they were welcome to come and see him. The sons, who live in London, said they have applied for visas and are hopeful their travel plans will materialise next month.
Allegations of Harsh Prison Conditions
Kasim and Suleiman said their father’s detention conditions are “awful” and fall far short of acceptable standards. They described the cell as having minimal light, intermittent electricity, and poor water quality, raising deep concerns about his safety and well-being.
The brothers also recounted how rumours about their father’s possible death circulating on social media caused them intense stress, highlighting the sense of helplessness they feel being far from Pakistan and waiting to travel.
Limited Contact and Family Struggles
The sons noted that prison visitation rights have been restricted, with family members often denied contact despite court orders intended to allow them to see Khan. They emphasised the emotional strain of not being able to speak with their father, particularly after the recent death of their grandmother, whom he considered a maternal figure.
A sit-in protest staged by Imran Khan’s sisters outside the jail to demand a meeting was dispersed by authorities, according to the brothers, intensifying concerns about access to him.
Calls for Human Rights Oversight
Kasim and Suleiman urged the international community to ensure that their father’s basic human rights are respected and that prison conditions are independently monitored. They highlighted the importance of implementing legal rulings on visitation rights and ensuring Imran Khan can see his personal physician.
Despite the difficulties, the brothers affirmed their determination to proceed with their travel plans, underlining their hope to see their father and address the ongoing situation face-to-face.
This story has been reported by PakTribune. All rights reserved.