Ex-Pak PM Imran Khan moved to private hospital from prison after SC order

Former Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan was transferred from Adiala prison to Shifa International Hospital in Islamabad late Thursday for a medical examination. This move comes after months of escalating health concerns, including a significant dispute over the worsening vision in his right eye. The transfer was executed following a directive from the Supreme Court earlier this week, which ordered authorities to facilitate Khan's medical assessment.

The Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party confirmed the transfer, stating compliance with the Supreme Court's order. However, details regarding whether Khan would return to prison after the examination or remain for further treatment remain unclear. His family and party have formally requested permission for him to stay at the hospital for ongoing care.

Earlier on Thursday, Parliamentary Affairs Minister Tariq Fazal Chaudhry indicated the government's intention to comply with the court's order. He also mentioned the government had sought clarification from the Supreme Court regarding the scope of the medical relief granted to Khan, emphasizing that this was not an attempt to delay or defy the ruling. The Supreme Court's three-judge panel had mandated the examination, stipulating that a medical board, including specialists and Khan's personal physician, Faisal Sultan, should assess him.

Concerns over Khan's health intensified in January when his family alleged he had lost approximately 85% of his vision in his right eye. The government contested this claim, later stating his vision had improved significantly. Khan, a former cricket star, was removed from office through a no-confidence vote in April 2022 and has been incarcerated since 2023 following convictions in several cases, including a graft charge.