Pakistan (Commonwealth Union)_ Supporters of jailed former Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan have begun a march toward the capital, Islamabad, demanding his release and drawing fresh attention to the political strength he continues to command despite being behind bars. The demonstration began in Lakki Marwat, in the northwestern province of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, where thousands of Khan’s supporters gathered in the streets. Many carried the red and green flags of his Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party. A large banner on a truck showed a smiling Khan raising his hand, along with the message, “Release Imran Khan.” The march, described by PTI supporters as a “long march,” was initially planned for September 27 but was delayed to allow negotiations with the government. Those talks eventually broke down, with both sides accusing the other of failing to compromise.
PTI leaders say the government refused to allow party representatives access to Khan, preventing them from consulting him on political and national matters. They also demanded an immediate medical examination and treatment for the former prime minister. Khan’s health has become a major source of concern for his family and supporters. His family has alleged that his eyesight has seriously deteriorated, particularly in his right eye, because of delays in receiving medical attention. Authorities have rejected claims that he is being denied necessary care. In August, Khan was temporarily moved to a government hospital, where doctors later declared him medically fit. The 73-year-old former cricket star has been imprisoned since 2023 and faces more than 100 legal cases, including allegations involving corruption, state secrets and government gifts.
Khan has consistently denied wrongdoing and says the cases are politically motivated. His continued popularity is significant. Despite his imprisonment, Khan remains one of Pakistan’s most influential political figures. Previous protests over his detention have sometimes turned violent. His arrest in May 2023 triggered widespread unrest, during which government and military buildings were attacked. At least eight people were killed. Authorities are taking no chances as the latest march heads toward Islamabad. Security forces have placed shipping containers on major roads leading into the capital to restrict access and prevent large crowds from entering. Tensions have also increased following the arrest of Khan’s sisters.
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PTI says their detention has added more pressure on the government and deepened anger among the party’s supporters. Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi has backed the march, saying the movement will spread across the country. Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, however, has accused Afridi of undermining negotiations. The march is expected to continue toward Islamabad in the coming days. It remains uncertain whether it will force the government to reconsider Khan’s imprisonment. For now, the size and determination of the crowds offer a clear message: imprisonment has not erased Imran Khan’s political influence. The bigger question is whether that support can translate into enough pressure to secure his release.
