Government open to releasing PTI founder Imran Khan

Adviser to the Prime Minister, Rana Sanaullah, announced that the government would not object if the court decides to release Imran Khan, the founder of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party. Khan has been in jail since August 2023 due to various convictions, including corruption and terrorism charges. This statement comes as the PTI plans nationwide protests following Eidul Fitr. The party claims its mandate was stolen and aims to reestablish the rule of law and demand the release of political prisoners. Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F) plans to join PTI in these protests, focusing on the government’s policies. During a discussion with reporters, Sanaullah noted Khan's imprisonment is linked to his legal troubles. Khan, 71, was ousted from power in April 2022 through a no-confidence vote and has faced multiple legal challenges since then. A recent parliamentary meeting aimed to address rising terrorism incidents, particularly in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan. The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister was present at the meeting, but PTI members chose to skip it. Khan's legal issues include a cipher case, where he was accused of sharing classified information, and an iddat case regarding his marriage. He has faced allegations that he misused state gifts during his premiership, which led to significant fines and prison sentences. On multiple occasions, courts have annulled some of his convictions, allowing for the possibility of his release. Although Khan remains imprisoned, discussions about his potential release continue.