Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) is calling on foreign governments to push for the release of party founder Imran Khan from prison and to facilitate his relocation abroad, Defence Minister Khawaja Asif has claimed.
“They are asking foreign powers to help influence Pakistan to free Imran Khan and send him to another country,” Asif stated. He made these remarks in an interview with a private news channel on Tuesday.
According to the minister, these international powers are “ready” to offer the PTI leader a place in their country. Imran Khan, who has been held in Rawalpindi’s Adiala jail since August 2023, remains a significant figure for PTI. His incarceration follows his conviction in the Toshakhana case, as well as other charges ahead of the February 8 elections — allegations he has repeatedly denied.
Asif’s comments come after reports that a growing number of international politicians are voicing their support for Khan’s release. Last week, 20 British parliamentarians from various political parties wrote to the UK’s Foreign Secretary, David Lammy. They urged him to press the Pakistani government to release Khan and engage diplomatically with Islamabad on this issue.
The letter, initiated by Kim Johnson, MP for Liverpool Riverside, was signed by lawmakers from both the Commons and the Lords. It was sent at the request of Zulfi Bukhari, an advisor to Khan on international affairs.
Additionally, over 60 members of the US House of Representatives sent a letter to President Joe Biden. The letter called for the United States to use its influence over Pakistan to secure Khan’s release. The Democratic lawmakers emphasized that human rights should be a priority in US-Pakistan relations.
“We urge you to leverage the United States’ position to ensure the release of political prisoners like Imran Khan and to address widespread human rights violations in Pakistan,” the letter stated.
The lawmakers also asked US embassy officials to visit Khan while he remains incarcerated in Adiala jail. The growing international pressure highlights the increasing concern over his detention and the call for his release.
