Peshawar: Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Minister for Information and Public Relations Shafi Jan on Tuesday strongly condemned the federal and Punjab governments for preventing lawyers and family members from meeting Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder chairman Imran Khan. He termed this action a serious violation of the Constitution, law, and democratic values.
Violation of Rights
Shafi Jan described the move as condemnable and regrettable, asserting that it clearly demonstrates the authorities' fear of Imran Khan. He stated that the restrictions are an attempt to isolate the former prime minister, but such tactics have failed repeatedly.
Solidarity Visit to Adiala Jail
The minister further revealed that Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi, along with members of the provincial assembly, traveled to Adiala Jail to express solidarity with the PTI founder and his sisters. In response, the federal government erected barriers outside Khyber Pakhtunkhwa House in Islamabad and deployed a heavy police contingent, displaying panic.
Health Concerns
Shafi Jan highlighted serious negligence regarding Imran Khan's health due to political victimization. He claimed that lack of timely and adequate medical care has adversely affected Khan's eyesight. He demanded that Imran and Bushra Bibi be immediately shifted to Al-Shifa Eye Hospital and be granted unrestricted access to their personal physicians and family members.
Public Support Unwavering
According to Shafi Jan, every attempt to isolate Imran Khan has failed because the public continues to stand firmly with him. He maintained that the government, fearful of Khan's popularity, has resorted to political revenge, but such tactics cannot diminish people's affection and support for him.
International Exposure
The minister added that the treatment meted out to Imran Khan has been exposed before the world. He noted that Imran has been kept in solitary confinement for more than 200 days, and his sister's last meeting with him took place in December 2025. Shafi Jan accused the "incompetent group" that came to power through "Form 47" of instituting false cases against Imran Khan to safeguard its rule, setting the worst examples of political victimization. He warned that the days of the current rulers are numbered.
Gilgit-Baltistan Elections
Shafi Jan also said that similar tactics motivated by fear of Imran Khan are being employed in the Gilgit-Baltistan elections. However, the public is now fully aware of such strategies and can see through them.
PTI's Stronghold
Shafi Jan concluded by stating that PTI secured a public mandate in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa for a third time due to Imran Khan's vision, public welfare agenda, development initiatives, and effective governance. He described Khyber Pakhtunkhwa as PTI's strongest political stronghold, adding that the party's increasing representation in the provincial assembly in successive elections reflects the people's unwavering trust and confidence.
