Imran Khan, former Prime Minister of Pakistan, has been sentenced to a three-year jail term for corruption, which could potentially mark the end of his political career. The court ruled that Khan had concealed assets after selling state gifts, and this conviction could bar him from holding or running for public office. Additionally, he may lose the chairmanship of his party, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), which he founded.
Critics have argued that Khan’s imprisonment is politically motivated and have suggested that his popularity and ability to mobilize large crowds pose a threat to the ruling coalition and Pakistan’s powerful military. This is the second time this year that Khan has been detained, joining other former prime ministers who have faced similar situations throughout the country’s political history.
Khan’s current detention in Attock prison is different from his previous custodial conditions in May when he was held in a well-appointed guesthouse. Attock prison, located in eastern Punjab province, is notorious for its harsh conditions and houses convicted militants.
Authorities have tightened security around the prison by erecting barriers and blocking roads to prevent unauthorized access. They have also instructed locals not to allow media onto their roofs to prevent the leakage of photographs and videos. These strict measures have inconvenienced the community, with one local expressing frustration over road closures and their impact on daily life.
The PTI’s lawyer has stated that the party will file an appeal against the verdict, citing “plenty of loopholes” in the decision. In May, Khan’s arrest on corruption charges sparked violent protests across the country, prompting the Supreme Court to order his release, deeming his arrest illegal. However, Khan’s calls for mass protests this time have gained little traction among his supporters, and some of his closest colleagues have defected from his party, leaving him isolated.
Tauseef Ahmed Khan, a Karachi-based analyst unrelated to the former premier, believes that while the situation is challenging for Khan, it doesn’t necessarily mean the end of his political career. According to the analyst, Khan’s resilience and ability to endure the hardships of prison could potentially shape him into a great leader.
As Khan begins his sentence, the political landscape in Pakistan may witness significant changes. The future of PTI and the opposition movement will depend on how Khan and his supporters navigate this challenging period.