Imran Khan, Pakistan’s former Prime Minister, has spent a year in jail but still holds power. While he is in prison, no one can miss Khan’s presence in the country’s opposition politics, as his name keeps popping up all over—in the media and courts included. He continues to be championed by social media supporters.
Khan’s sister, Aleema Khanum, says he has a strong spirit. “There is still a swagger about him,” she states, emphasizing that his resilience and unwavering commitment are palpable. Using his time behind bars, Khan reportedly works out, reads, and meditates.
The Military Connection
Khan’s imprisonment is closely tied to Pakistan’s military establishment. His initially beneficial relationship with the military soured after being ousted from power. Widespread protests followed by violent attacks on military installations erupted across the country when Khan was arrested last May.
The political hurdles facing the ex-PM today attest to how much influence the army wields over him even while incarcerated. Analysts say there seems to have been no room for negotiation between Khan and the army: “The military doesn’t ease up when they decide there’s a political figure they want to lock up. Explained Michael Kugelman of the Wilson Centre think tank.
Political Fallout And Elections
After Khan was detained, everything changed politically within PTI. This party won notable seats during the February elections despite its leader being behind bars, which only shows how influential he continues to be even from prison.
However, success at polls did not bring instant rewards for PTI candidates who lost their symbol due to poor campaigns run under adverse conditions. According to Salman Akram Raja, a lawyer for the former PM and some of its members.
Recent Developments
However, recent months have brought some hope for those supporting Kahn because three convictions against him were overturned, and a UN panel declared detention arbitrary. Thus, the Supreme Court recognized party status, granting reserved seats.
Yet again, these victories do little good. Especially since new charges arise daily, coupled with the legal battles Bushra Bibi (wife) faces. Pakistani authorities plan to ban PTI, which goes against human rights organizations’ wishes.
Future Prospects
Analysts say it will depend largely on what happens between Imran Khan and the military if he ever gets out. It may require reconciliation before anything else can happen or suggest observers who see this as a strategic move following calls for snap elections alongside appeals directed towards neutrality from the top brass.
In other words, “the key to Khan’s future may lie in smoothing out relations with the military,” Kugelman stated, adding that without doing so, it would be impossible for him to regain control over anything, including freedom again.
