Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi has formally lodged a strong protest with Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz over the alleged mistreatment of Imran Khan’s sisters and the repeated obstruction of the former prime minister’s court-approved visitation rights. The letter, shared by PTI on Friday, highlights growing tensions surrounding access to Imran Khan at Adiala Jail.
Concerns Over Visitation Blocked for the Seventh Time
The development follows Afridi’s own repeated denial of entry, marking the seventh consecutive time he has been prevented from meeting the PTI founder. In his letter, Afridi condemned what he described as “inappropriate and rough treatment” of Khan’s sisters, adding that they were peaceful private citizens simply trying to see their brother under judicial permission.
Afridi noted that the reported physical restraint and temporary detention of the family members was unacceptable and in violation of basic dignity. He stressed that court directives governing visitation were not being followed, urging Punjab authorities to uphold the law.
Call for Safe Waiting Areas and Accountability
The KP chief minister criticised the current system that forces elderly women and visiting family members to wait long distances from the facility—sometimes nearly a kilometre away. He urged the Punjab government to create a safe, proper, and dignified waiting area for authorised visitors.
Afridi further demanded the identification and accountability of officials allegedly involved in obstructing or insulting visitors, including KP cabinet members. He recommended establishing a structured mechanism to ensure future visits are carried out in a respectful and lawful manner, highlighting Imran Khan’s status as a former prime minister and party leader.
Afridi Misses ECP Hearing on Election Interference Case
Meanwhile, Afridi failed to appear before the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) during a hearing related to allegations that he threatened election staff during a rally in Havelian. A four-member bench led by the Chief Election Commissioner heard the case in Islamabad, with strict security in place.
Afridi’s counsel and the KP Advocate General represented him in his absence. The ECP stated that an interim order would be issued, noting that public office holders are barred from campaigning or pressuring election officials.
