The sons of jailed Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan have alleged that their father is being kept in what they described as a “death cell” at Adiala jail, claiming he is subjected to harsh and substandard conditions that violate international prisoner rights.
Speaking in an interview with Sky News, Kasim and Sulaiman said the former prime minister is confined to a small, dimly lit cell typically used for death row inmates. Sulaiman described the conditions as “awful,” alleging that electricity is sometimes cut off and that dirty water is provided, adding that the treatment does not meet international legal standards for prisoners.
Imran Khan has been incarcerated for more than two years, and his detention has remained a major flashpoint in Pakistan’s political landscape. PTI supporters have repeatedly protested outside Adiala jail, often clashing with law enforcement over access to the jailed leader.
The claims come amid heightened tensions following recent sit-ins by Khan’s family members. Last week, police dispersed a protest staged by his sisters outside the jail after authorities said visiting hours had ended. Earlier protests included a 16-hour sit-in by Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi and repeated demonstrations demanding meetings with the former premier.
Addressing recent rumours about their father’s death, Sulaiman said the speculation was “incredibly stressful,” noting that the family relies heavily on limited direct communication from relatives who manage to see Khan. Kasim echoed the concern, saying such rumours were deeply unsettling, especially given their distance from Pakistan and inability to intervene directly.
The brothers said their aunt, Uzma Khan, who last met Imran Khan on December 2, reassured them that he appeared physically well but was angered by the conditions of his confinement. Government officials have recently hinted at the possibility of transferring Khan to another prison, though Adiala jail authorities have denied that any such proposal is under consideration.
Kasim and Sulaiman also indicated they are planning a visit to Pakistan, potentially in January, provided their visas are approved. Kasim said applications have been submitted and they are awaiting confirmation, adding that they intend to proceed unless authorities reverse assurances previously given.
Asked whether they would urge their father to strike a deal to secure his release, Kasim said the decision ultimately rests with Imran Khan. He added that leaving Pakistan would conflict with his father’s sense of purpose and commitment to the country, even though it would allow the family to reunite abroad.
The brothers called on the international community to ensure that basic human rights standards are upheld. They urged independent monitoring of their father’s detention and stressed the need for court orders to be implemented, access to a personal physician, and respect for the rule of law.
Both said they plan to step up international advocacy, including possible visits to Brussels or Geneva, arguing that sustained global pressure can help improve conditions. They have previously raised the issue with international figures, including senior US officials, to draw attention to Imran Khan’s imprisonment.
