The Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf has announced the creation of the “Imran Khan Release Force”, aimed at securing the release of former Prime Minister Imran Khan, who has been in jail since August 2023.
The cricketer-turned-politician, 73, was convicted in multiple cases that he claims were politically motivated following his removal from office in 2022.
The announcement comes amid growing concern over Khan’s health after a medical report submitted to the Supreme Court of Pakistan revealed that he has only 15% vision remaining in his right eye. While the government maintains he is receiving proper treatment, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi said PTI leaders and Khan’s doctors were satisfied with the care, though his sister Aleema Khan was reportedly politicising the issue.
KP CM Leads the Movement
In a press conference outside the Supreme Court, Sohail Afridi, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s Chief Minister and a loyalist of Khan, said he had been tasked with leading a “street movement” by the jailed PTI founder. Afridi alleged that court orders were being ignored and claimed Khan was still being denied access to his personal doctors.
Naqvi Blames Delay in Imran Khan’s Eye Examination on ‘Political Tactics’
He confirmed that the Imran Khan Release Force would be formally registered and pledged that the movement would follow a peaceful approach. Members are set to take an oath in Peshawar immediately after Eid ul Fitr.
Structure and Objectives
Afridi stated that the force would have a clear chain of command, with Imran Khan deciding key leadership roles. Preparations would be completed before any public actions are launched.
The movement, he emphasized, would focus on promoting constitutional supremacy, democracy, and independent media, underscoring its stated commitment to legal and peaceful advocacy rather than confrontation.
