Imran Khan Taken to Islamabad Hospital for Overnight Eye Treatment

Former Pakistani prime minister Imran Khan was briefly transferred from prison to a hospital in Islamabad for an eye examination and follow-up treatment, before being discharged in the early hours of Wednesday, according to the medical facility.

The 74-year-old former cricket star was taken from Adiala Central Jail in Rawalpindi to the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS) during the night of November 10-11, the hospital said in a statement.

“During his stay at PIMS, he remained vitally stable before, during and after the procedure,” the hospital said, adding that Khan was discharged at 2:30 am local time.

Khan, who served as prime minister from 2018 to 2022, has been in custody since August 2023. He faces numerous criminal cases, including allegations of corruption and treason, following unrest involving supporters of his Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party.

Khan and his legal team deny the allegations, describing the cases as politically motivated attempts to undermine his popularity and prevent his return to power.

The PTI expressed concern over the circumstances surrounding the latest hospital visit, saying the admission raised questions about Khan’s health and the transparency of information provided about his medical condition.

“A human being’s health is not a political bargaining chip. Nor can the medical treatment of a former Prime Minister be reduced to a procedural formality,” the party said in a statement.

It added that the state was responsible for ensuring Khan’s safety and access to appropriate medical care.

Pakistan’s interior and information ministries did not immediately respond to requests for comment from AFP.

Concerns about Khan’s treatment have prompted protests by supporters in recent months. In October, thousands of people demonstrated in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, a province where the PTI has a strong political presence. Protesters called for improved medical care and greater access for doctors and family members.

The Supreme Court ruled in August that Khan should be transferred to a civilian hospital for treatment. However, after a brief stay at a government-run medical facility, he was returned to prison.

Khan’s imprisonment has remained a major source of political tension in Pakistan. He rose to power with the backing of sections of the country’s powerful military establishment but later fell out with military leaders over senior appointments and foreign policy issues.

He was removed from office in April 2022 through a parliamentary vote of no confidence. Since then, Khan has accused the military leadership, including Army Chief General Asim Munir, of orchestrating his removal. The military has denied interfering in politics.

The latest hospital visit is likely to renew attention on Khan’s health, prison conditions and the continuing dispute between his party and the authorities over his treatment.