Allegations Called a Deliberate Smear Campaign
Maryam Riaz Wattoo, sister of Bushra Bibi—the wife of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) chairman Imran Khan—strongly rejected recent media claims suggesting tensions in the couple’s relationship.
In a statement on social media platform X, she said that baseless and fabricated accusations are being circulated about Bushra Bibi. Moreover, she added that these rumours have no connection with reality and are part of a malicious, coordinated plan to harm the public image of the former prime minister and his wife.
Wattoo stressed that Bushra Bibi cannot even imagine betraying Imran Khan. Furthermore, she noted that the disinformation appears aimed at creating suspicion at a time when both face significant legal and political pressures.
Restricted Access and Growing Concerns Over Health
Wattoo expressed deep concern that for the past eight weeks, neither family members nor Bushra Bibi’s legal team have been allowed to meet her.
As a result, she said, anxiety has grown regarding Bushra Bibi’s health and well-being. We have received no credible updates about her condition, she added. Additionally, authorities have not offered any clarity despite repeated requests.
Limited access to high-profile detainees is common in Pakistan. However, human rights groups, including Amnesty International, have repeatedly urged authorities to ensure transparency and humane treatment for political prisoners.
Wattoo also accused unnamed individuals of spreading false stories. Specifically, some claims suggested that she pressured her sister to distance herself from Imran Khan to secure release. Nevertheless, she called these allegations completely untrue.
She Chose Jail Over Leaving Imran Khan
Wattoo highlighted that Bushra Bibi voluntarily moved from the PTI residence in Bani Gala to prison. She described this decision as an act of courage.
According to her, if Bushra Bibi ever wanted to abandon Imran Khan, she could have done so before her first arrest. Instead, she chose loyalty, demonstrating her commitment even under pressure.
Pakistan’s political scene has been tense since Imran Khan’s removal in 2022. Many PTI leaders left the party after arrests or legal cases. Therefore, Wattoo said Bushra Bibi’s decision not to leave Islamabad clearly shows her dedication to her husband.
Emotional Appeal to Rejoin Family Rejected
Wattoo revealed that she repeatedly urged Bushra Bibi to move in with their mother after Imran Khan’s arrest. She said Bushra Bibi was alone and vulnerable at the time.
However, Bushra Bibi refused. She reportedly stated that going abroad to see their mother would fuel accusations of abandoning Imran Khan. In fact, she said she could never leave him alone.
Thus, this stance highlights Bushra Bibi’s emotional and principled loyalty during a politically challenging period.
Dismissal of Rumours and Assertion of Unity
Finally, in her closing remarks, Wattoo reaffirmed that attempts to create distrust between Imran Khan and Bushra Bibi would fail.
No matter how hard these people try, they cannot shake the trust between them, she said. Moreover, she concluded with, Insha’Allah, they will always stand together.
The controversy occurs as PTI leaders continue to face legal cases, communication restrictions, and political isolation. Consequently, rumours about personal relationships can influence public perception. Wattoo’s statement aims to counter these narratives and reassure supporters of unity at the top.
