Ex-Pakistani PM Imran Khan Goes from High Office to High Security Prison After Court Sentencing

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Former Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan woke up Sunday in a high-security prison, having been given a three-year jail term by a court for corruption charges. This development could mark the end of his political career.

Khan, who was removed from office in a no-confidence vote in April 2022 but continues to be a leading opposition figure, was found guilty of hiding assets that were acquired from the sale of state gifts.

His imprisonment could preclude him from participating in politics due to legislation that disallows individuals with criminal convictions from occupying or contesting for public office. Additionally, he might be forced to relinquish his leadership of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party.

Many argue that the move to incarcerate Khan is politically driven, a maneuver that has escalated with the approaching elections set for later this year.

Critics contend that Khan’s wide popularity and his skill in galvanizing huge crowds represent a challenge to the ruling coalition and the influential military, who have often been the ultimate deciders in Pakistan’s politics since its independence in 1947.

This marks the second instance of Khan’s detention this year, mirroring the experiences of previous Pakistani prime ministers who have been arrested and have encountered military interventions throughout Pakistan’s political past.

However, Khan’s current conditions in Attock prison, situated in eastern Punjab province and known for its severe environment housing convicted militants, differ greatly from his May detention in a comfortable guesthouse in Islamabad, where he was allowed to host visitors and engage with his party members.

Heightened security measures have been implemented around Attock prison, including barriers, road blockages, and instructions to locals to prevent media access, much to the dismay of some residents like Muhammad Farooq Khattak, who voiced his frustration at the situation.

PTI lawyer Shoaib Shaheen revealed that the police at the prison denied entry to Khan’s legal team and emphasized that the party plans to appeal, citing “numerous gaps in the judgment.”

Khan’s previous arrest in May on corruption allegations spurred violent demonstrations across the nation. However, his arrest was subsequently declared unlawful by the Supreme Court of Pakistan, which ordered his release just days later.

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