Imran Khan’s sister Aleema rejects Pakistan government’s claim of improved vision for the jailed ex-PM, alleging neglect and demanding independent checks amid protests in Islamabad.
Family Rejects Claims on Imran Khan’s Eye Health:
Aleema Khan, sister of Pakistan’s jailed former Prime Minister Imran Khan, has outright rejected a government medical board’s assertion that his eyesight has significantly improved, insisting the family has no trust in reports issued without their involvement. This dispute erupted after a February 15, 2026, examination at Adiala Jail, where doctors claimed Khan’s right-eye vision jumped from 6/36 to 6/9, but Aleema labeled it a fabrication, highlighting fears of criminal negligence in his care. The row amplifies concerns over the treatment of Pakistan’s most prominent political prisoner, potentially fueling nationwide protests and straining the fragile coalition government.
Imran Khan Vision Controversy Triggers Nationwide Unrest:
The controversy intensified on February 17, 2026, when Aleema Khan spoke to media outlets, dismissing the government’s medical findings as unreliable without family oversight. According to the board’s report, submitted after a Supreme Court directive, Khan’s right-eye vision improved post-treatment, with swelling reduced and no major complications. However, Aleema countered that the family would not accept any claims until Khan’s personal physician, Dr. Aasim Yusuf, examines him in person.
Timeline traces back to late 2025; Khan reported vision problems starting three months ago, but jail authorities allegedly ignored complaints for two weeks. In late January 2026, he underwent a secretive anti-VEGF injection without family notification, sparking outrage. A court-appointed lawyer, Barrister Salman Safdar, reported on February 10 that Khan retained only 15% vision in his right eye due to delayed care. The February 15 exam followed, but PTI chairman Gohar Ali Khan declined to attend, citing lack of trust.
On February 18, Interior Minister Naqvi blamed Aleema for delaying the process, claiming she vetoed arrangements for political gain. Sisters Aleema and Uzma held a presser outside Adiala Jail, relaying Khan’s message via his wife Bushra Bibi, who met him briefly. They accused the government of shifting from agreed-upon Shifa International to Al Shifa Eye Hospital and barring family access.
Protests erupted, with PTI allies blocking roads and demanding hospital transfer. Khan’s sons from the UK have pending visa applications to visit.
Imran Khan’s Detention Fuels Political Tensions:
Imran Khan’s imprisonment since August 2023 stems from multiple convictions on charges including corruption and inciting violence, which he denies as politically motivated. Ousted in 2022 via no-confidence vote, he alleges military orchestration under Army Chief Asim Munir. A UN panel in 2024 deemed his detention arbitrary, aimed at barring him from politics.
Health woes compound his isolation; limited family visits since October 2025, with sisters protesting denial of access. This incident echoes prior concerns, like unverified death rumors in 2025, which Aleema called a “public reaction test.” Significance lies in Pakistan’s polarized politics-Khan commands massive support, with PTI claiming 90% national backing. Protests could destabilize the Shehbaz Sharif-led coalition, amid economic woes and military influence. Global figures, like Indian cricketer Sunil Gavaskar, have urged humane treatment.