Pakistan rejects Imran Khan’s sons’ allegation of prison communication blackout

Pakistan rejects Imran Khan’s sons’ allegation of prison communication blackout

The Government of Pakistan has categorically rejected allegations by the sons of former Prime Minister Imran Khan that he has been kept under a seven-month communications blackout and denied access to his family, lawyers and doctors, terming the claims “unsubstantiated” and contrary to official prison records.

In a detailed response, the government said documented records showed that Imran Khan had continued to receive visitors, legal access and medical care during his imprisonment, rejecting what it described as an attempt to create an international controversy without evidence.

According to the government, since the beginning of his conviction, prison records show 198 meetings involving more than 900 visitors, including family members, legal representatives and political associates. It said Khan was also allowed a weekly meeting with his wife, with the latest meeting taking place on 4 August 2026, the same day his sons made allegations of a communications blackout during an appearance on CNN.

The government said prison authorities maintain records of approved visits and communications, including WhatsApp and landline calls with family members in Pakistan and abroad. It added that Khan’s last call with his son was recorded on 21 March 2026.

The statement said any temporary restrictions were imposed under Pakistan Prison Rules, court orders and security requirements applicable to high-profile prisoners, particularly due to political activities outside the prison.

“There is no prohibition on access; it is regulated under the law,” the government said, adding that prison meetings cannot be used as unrestricted political communication channels.

Rejecting claims regarding medical treatment, the government said Imran Khan had received regular medical examinations by specialist teams and medical boards from institutions including the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS), Shifa International Hospital, Shaukat Khanum Memorial Hospital and Al-Shifa Trust Eye Hospital.

The government said Khan underwent treatment for a retinal condition, including five intravitreal anti-VEGF injections, specialist examinations and retinal imaging. It added that his latest specialist assessment was carried out in July 2026, with further medication and follow-up care prescribed.

According to the official statement, medical records describe Khan as “oriented and stable”, with no reported acute or unmanaged deterioration.

The government said disclosure of medical reports remained subject to legal procedures, patient confidentiality and ongoing proceedings before the Supreme Court of Pakistan.

Addressing the issue of Khan’s sons’ travel to Pakistan, the government said the matter involved separate processes relating to NICOP and visa requirements. It stated that overseas Pakistanis holding a valid NICOP are eligible for visa-free entry and rejected what it called an attempt to present an administrative matter as political victimisation.

The statement also detailed the facilities provided to Imran Khan in prison, saying he was being kept in a separate compound with accommodation and amenities exceeding minimum requirements for prisoners in the same category.

The government maintained that Imran Khan was being treated according to constitutional guarantees, prison laws and court directives, while insisting that no individual was entitled to a separate legal framework or exemption from security regulations.