KP Chief Minister Slams 'Medical Terrorism' in Imran Khan Health Episode
Chief Minister of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Muhammad Sohail Afridi, has launched a scathing attack on state institutions, accusing them of grave negligence and what he termed medical terrorism in the handling of PTI founding chairman Imran Khan's health. Speaking at a press conference outside the Supreme Court of Pakistan on Friday, Afridi asserted that this incident has severely shaken public trust in the system.
Allegations of Unauthorized Medical Procedures
Afridi detailed that Imran Khan, the lifetime chairman of Pakistan's largest political party and a former prime minister, was shifted to a hospital without his consent, without the approval of his family, and without consulting his personal physicians. He emphasized that Khan was taken to a facility where no specialist for his condition was available, branding this move as an act of medical terrorism.
The chief minister further alleged that the incident was concealed for five days from the nation, Imran Khan's family, his doctors, and his lawyers. He pointed out that federal ministers initially denied any medical procedure had occurred, but later a government minister confirmed that surgery had been performed, highlighting what he called a lack of transparency and accountability.
Criticism of Discriminatory Treatment and Constitutional Violations
Afridi criticized what he described as discriminatory treatment by state authorities, noting that one provincial chief minister was made to spend nights on the roads, while another was provided a Pakistan Air Force aircraft for foreign visits. He warned that such actions are fueling public anger and pushing the situation towards a dangerous path.
He also stated that his party has repeatedly demanded that Imran Khan's personal doctors be allowed to meet him and brief the nation, but permission has been refused. Afridi termed this a violation of the Constitution and the law, stressing that it undermines basic human rights and legal protections.
Political Fallout and Future Actions
Afridi declared that the current government has lost its moral and political credibility, with neither the public nor his party trusting its actions. He expressed that the entire nation is deeply concerned about Imran Khan's health, and the public demands answers regarding his condition at the time of imprisonment, the reasons for the surgery, and his current health status.
While affirming his party's belief in political struggle and dialogue within the constitutional framework, Afridi warned that if all options are closed, the Constitution guarantees the right to protest, which they will exercise. He announced that a meeting of the party's political committee, including Senate Opposition Leader Allama Raja Nasir Abbas and National Assembly members, will be convened to decide the future course of action. Additionally, he confirmed that the protest scheduled for February 8 will proceed as planned, with preparations underway nationwide.
