The multi-party opposition alliance Tehreek-e-Tahafuz-e-Ayin-e-Pakistan (TTAP) has decided to continue its sit-in protest at Parliament House in Islamabad, sources said on Tuesday, as jailed Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan’s health concerns dominate the political discourse.
During a meeting at Parliament House led by National Assembly Opposition Leader Mahmood Khan Achakzai, members resolved to maintain the protest until Imran Khan’s personal physicians and family are allowed access to him at Rawalpindi’s Adiala Jail. Some PTI members had earlier suggested ending the sit-in based on a medical report, but the alliance agreed to continue its actions for now.
Lawmakers from both PTI and TTAP began the multi-day sit-in on February 13, demanding that the former prime minister be shifted to a hospital for treatment of his eye condition, which he and his family say has led to a significant loss of vision. Imran Khan claims he has lost around 85% vision in his right eye and insists that his personal doctors be allowed to examine and treat him.
In a press briefing, Imran Khan’s sister Aleema Khan said authorities blocked the family from visiting him in prison, and noted that Khan had asked PTI leaders to file a legal case against prison authorities for denying access. She also reiterated calls for a blood test and independent medical evaluation by his chosen physicians.
However, the government has rebutted PTI’s claims. Adviser to the Prime Minister on Political Affairs Rana Sanaullah called the protests politically motivated, accusing the opposition of trying to spread chaos across the country rather than focus on Imran Khan’s medical issues. He also defended the care being provided in custody, saying the former premier is receiving the best available treatment.
A follow-up meeting of the alliance is scheduled for Thursday, and the sit-in continues amid growing political tensions as Pakistan remains deeply divided over issues surrounding Imran Khan’s incarceration and health.