ISLAMABAD: Aleema Khan, sister of incarcerated PTI founder Imran Khan, has called for a direct “give-and-take” dialogue with Pakistan’s so-called “unseen forces” to negotiate her brother’s release. Speaking to the media on Tuesday, she accused hidden elements of obstructing justice and pressuring judges involved in Imran Khan’s legal cases.
Aleema alleged that court petitions related to the former prime minister were being manipulated—added to cause lists and later removed without explanation. “Come forward and talk to us,” she urged. “Tell us what Khan has done to you. We’re ready to sit and speak openly.”
Imran Khan, who was ousted via a no-confidence motion in 2022, has been in prison since August 2023, facing numerous charges ranging from corruption to terrorism. Aleema insisted he remains resolute in prison, refusing to compromise. “He told me, ‘Even if jailed for life, I will not submit to tyrants,’” she quoted him as saying.
She accused powerful, unelected actors of threatening judges and lawmakers and asked them to engage directly, rather than exerting influence from the shadows. “If there’s room for negotiation, tell us what you want,” she added.
Aleema maintained that Imran Khan stood only for democracy and had not acted against national interests. “Why fear his release?” she asked. “He is not a threat to Pakistan.”
Gandapur Slams Govt, Judiciary; Vows to Continue Movement
Meanwhile, outside the Islamabad High Court, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur launched a fierce critique of the federal government, judiciary, and political opponents, reaffirming loyalty to Imran Khan.
Rejecting the 26th Constitutional Amendment, he called it “unacceptable” and vowed to “throw it in the dustbin.” Gandapur also alleged widespread rigging in the February 8 general elections, accusing “traitors” of colluding to steal the public mandate.
He announced that the next hearing related to Khan’s legal battle is scheduled for June 5, ahead of Eid, where “manipulations of Pakistani law” will be exposed.
Gandapur emphasized that PTI’s struggle would continue. “We were, are, and will remain with Imran Khan. He’s fighting for our future,” he said, adding that no valid case exists against the PTI founder.
He also claimed that KP, under PTI leadership, had achieved an economic surplus of Rs200 million and received positive recognition from the IMF, in contrast to Sindh’s performance.
Defending the right to protest, he said PTI respects Red Zone protocols in KP and does not suppress demonstrations. Concluding his remarks, Gandapur criticized the federal government, claiming it was “elected through Form-47” and said those who stole the public mandate “should be ashamed.”
