Concerns are mounting over the deteriorating state of democracy in Pakistan, marked by the detention of Imran Khan’s sisters and the potential banning of his political party, PTI. Uzma and Aleema Khan were reportedly arrested outside Adiala Jail as they attempted to visit their brother, a visit that had been promised but then denied. This incident underscores a pattern of repression against the former Prime Minister and his political allies.
The detention of Khan’s sisters occurred after a protest by PTI workers demanding adherence to visitation agreements. Authorities reportedly used water cannons on the demonstrators before detaining Uzma and Aleema. The elderly sisters’ arrest has amplified the distress and anger among PTI supporters, who see this as a direct assault on their leadership.
Adding to the pressure, the Punjab Assembly has voted to ban PTI, accusing the party of engaging in ‘anti-national activities.’ This resolution prohibits PTI from conducting any political operations in Punjab, a move that significantly restricts the party’s reach and influence in a key political territory.
On the international front, Pakistan continues to receive substantial financial aid, including recent IMF bailouts. There are suggestions that interventions from global figures have facilitated this continued financial support, potentially overlooking overdue reform commitments. This influx of funds is seen by some as propping up the current establishment amidst widespread political suppression.