Minister Claims Delay Was Tactical
Pakistan’s Interior Minister, Mohsin Naqvi, has publicly alleged that a scheduled eye examination for imprisoned former Prime Minister Imran Khan was deliberately delayed for three days due to the “political tactics” of his sister, Aleema Khan. The accusation was made during a press conference in Islamabad, escalating tensions surrounding the jailed PTI founder’s health.
Medical Meeting and Alleged Satisfaction
Naqvi detailed a meeting between government-appointed doctors and Imran Khan’s personal medical team, alongside PTI leaders. He stated that Khan’s doctors expressed satisfaction with the treatment provided, allegedly commenting that the care was “excellent” and matched what they would have prescribed. According to the minister, political leaders present also conveyed their satisfaction.
“But all I can tell you is that Aleema Khan sahiba told her party that if we accept this, the issue will die down. Due to her, the medical check-up could not be conducted for three days,” Naqvi asserted, framing the delay as a strategic political move.
Serious Health Condition Confirmed
The controversy unfolds against the backdrop of a confirmed serious medical diagnosis. A report submitted to the Supreme Court verified that Imran Khan is suffering from Central Retinal Vein Occlusion (CRVO) in his right eye, a condition often linked to cardiovascular risk factors. The report noted the former premier had complained of losing approximately 85% of the vision in that eye.
Ongoing Protests and Political Fallout
Khan’s health has become a focal point for political protest. The PTI and opposition allies have been staging a five-day sit-in outside parliament and other locations, demanding better medical access and hospital transfer for their leader. The party has raised alarms over his treatment in Adiala Jail, where he has been detained since August 2023.
Minister Naqvi countered these claims, insisting the government is providing “all possible medical facilities.” He portrayed the opposition’s actions as a contradiction, stating, “On the one hand, they say that they are very close, and on the other, they all-out politicised this issue.”
The situation remains volatile, with Khan’s health and the conditions of his imprisonment continuing to drive a significant political confrontation in Pakistan.
