LAHORE:
Aleema Khan, sister of Imran Khan, on Friday called for “resistance” and increased public pressure to secure the release of the incarcerated Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder, urging party members and supporters to mobilize.
Speaking to media outside an anti-terrorism court after attending trials in cases linked to the May 9 unrest, she questioned why litigants were summoned while the judge was on leave, criticizing what she described as unnecessary inconvenience to citizens “in the name of saving gas.”
She also took aim at rising fuel prices, saying increases in Pakistan were disproportionate to global trends and alleging that external factors were being used as justification while the public continued to bear the burden.
Aleema Khan stressed that silence in the face of injustice will only make the situation worse.
“We take responsibility for our brother and make every effort for his release,” she said, adding that they were ready to face “all consequences,” including imprisonment.
Referring to international developments, she noted that displays of “bravery” abroad have highlighted the need for stronger national resolve, warning that those responsible for the current situation would eventually be held accountable.
Alleging a plan to keep Imran Khan in jail for a prolonged period, she said “resistance” was now the only viable path.
She urged PTI officials to mobilize, saying the party had between 50,000 and 60,000 notified officials, including a significant number from the Rawalpindi division.
She called on at least 10,000 officials from neighboring districts to gather outside Adiala prison, saying sustained pressure was essential.
“Without pressure, the founder will not be released,” she said, adding that those who do not want to endure the difficulties should step aside to make room for others.
Highlighting his health concerns, Aleema Khan claimed that Imran Khan needed urgent medical attention, alleging that one of his eyes had been affected and warning of further risks if treatment was delayed.
Separately, an anti-terrorism court has extended interim bail of Aleema Khan, Uzma Khan and other accused in several cases related to the May 9 riots till May 7.
The court ordered the prosecution to present the case in the next hearing and asked the lawyers to present their arguments.
The hearing was conducted by a duty judge following the transfer of the judge who regularly presided.
Several defendants, including Asad Umar and Azam Swati, were granted a one-day exemption from personal appearance.
The cases, registered at Sarwar Road, Gulberg and Naseerabad police stations, include allegations of arson, vandalism and attacks on public and private properties, including an office of the Pakistan Muslim League-N and the residence known as Jinnah House.
