Islamabad: Pakistan’s former Prime Minister Imran Khan has been transferred from prison to a hospital in the capital following an order from the country’s Supreme Court for an independent medical examination.
The 73-year-old Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leader was moved early on Friday from Adiala jail in Rawalpindi to Shifa International Hospital in Islamabad under tight security. His party confirmed the transfer but did not immediately provide further details.
Supreme Court orders medical examination
The transfer followed a Supreme Court directive ordering authorities to move Khan to a hospital within two days. The court also directed that an independent medical board assess his condition and include his personal physician.
The order came after a report from Adiala jail authorities referred to an August 10 assessment by a cardiac board. The report recorded fluctuations in Khan’s blood pressure and anxiety, which it linked to his restricted contact with his family.
Khan’s health has become a growing point of concern among his supporters and family members during his prolonged imprisonment.
Government had challenged the order
The Pakistani government had challenged the Supreme Court’s decision to transfer Khan to a private hospital. However, Parliamentary Affairs Minister Tariq Fazal Chaudhry said the government would comply with the court’s ruling.
Officials said preparations for the transfer had been completed on Thursday, paving the way for Khan to be taken to the Islamabad hospital.
Khan remains in prison
Khan was removed from the office of Prime Minister in April 2022 following a no-confidence vote. He has remained in prison for more than three years amid several legal cases.
His PTI party has repeatedly raised concerns over his treatment and access to family members. The latest hospital transfer has renewed attention on the former prime minister’s health as his legal and political battles continue.