Imran Khan Moved from Prison to Hospital, Then Back Again

Pakistan's incarcerated former Prime Minister Imran Khan was transferred from prison to a hospital for medical attention on Thursday, a move ordered by the country's Supreme Court. However, he was returned to prison on Friday, with no immediate explanation given for his swift return.

The transfer to the Shifa Hospital in Islamabad followed a Supreme Court ruling that addressed concerns raised by Khan's legal team regarding his deteriorating health. The court had ordered his hospitalization within two days. Zulfi Bukhari, a spokesperson for Khan's party, Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), confirmed the hospital transfer. The presence of hundreds of police officers near the hospital and the closure of surrounding roads indicated the security measures in place.

Khan's lawyers had petitioned the Supreme Court, citing his poor health and need for medical examinations. The court's decision also stipulated that Khan would be allowed weekly visits from his family and bi-weekly phone calls with his sons. Furthermore, an expert panel, including his sister who is a doctor, was to be established to oversee his continued medical care.

Khan, 73, and his wife were sentenced to 17 years in prison last December on corruption charges. He has been detained since 2023 and faces multiple convictions. Khan maintains that the charges are politically motivated, intended to prevent his return to power. A former world-renowned cricketer, he served as prime minister from 2018 to 2022 before being ousted in a no-confidence vote amid political turmoil. His arrest in May 2023 triggered nationwide protests, and a UN expert panel concluded in 2024 that his detention lacked legal basis and appeared aimed at barring him from elections.

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The whole country is now filled with joy.