Pakistan’s political temperature rose Monday as PTI loyalists and opposition allies protested vigorously at the Supreme Court gates in Islamabad. Their core grievances: rush trials for Imran Khan’s cases, family visitation rights, and urgent medical intervention for the ex-premier’s deteriorating health.
The crowd featured heavyweights like Allama Raja Nasir Abbas, Salman Akram Raja, Aamir Dogar, Ali Muhammad Khan, Shafullah Jan, Muhammad Hussain, and Shahid Khattak. Khan has been locked in Adiala Jail since August 2023, hit with a 14-year term in the £190 million graft saga and fresh guilt in a gifts embezzlement probe.
Health fears intensified after January’s CRVO diagnosis in his right eye. PTI and kin decry inadequate jail facilities, demanding trusted doctors’ involvement. Viral protest footage from TTPA reiterated pleas for comprehensive check-ups, family meets, and case accelerations.
Salman Akram Raja scorned PIMS reports submitted to court, stressing whole-body diagnostics beyond ocular issues. Ali Muhammad Khan evoked national imagery: ‘The country’s future hinges on its leader’s sight—send him to Shifa Hospital now.’ Shahid Khattak decried the ego-driven denial of care, citing Bushra Bibi’s parallel political imprisonment.
A seven-page affidavit from lawyer Salman Safdar, based on a jail visit, quotes Khan: a clot caused irreversible damage, retaining just 15% vision in the affected eye. Protesters pledge follow-ups at the court, framing this as a justice-versus-power struggle.
Against Pakistan’s backdrop of military influence and election disputes, these actions amplify PTI’s narrative of persecution. As Khan’s saga unfolds, it tests the judiciary’s independence and the opposition’s resolve.