Former Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan remains in high spirits despite challenging jail conditions, revealed his spokesperson on Monday. Khan's optimism comes in the wake of his conviction for corruption, which has rendered him ineligible to participate in the upcoming elections later this year.
The erstwhile international cricket sensation was apprehended on Saturday and swiftly incarcerated following a guilty verdict in one of the 200-plus cases he has faced since his removal from office in April 2022 through a vote of no confidence. While a few scattered protests took place, Khan's influence has significantly waned due to a recent government crackdown that led to the arrest of numerous supporters.
Khan's lawyer visited him in a century-old prison on the outskirts of Attock city, seeking power of attorney to proceed with legal challenges. Despite being held in dire conditions in a "C-class cell," Khan's spokesperson, Raoof Hasan, conveyed that he maintains a strong spirit and an unwavering commitment to his principles.
Sentenced to three years in jail for failing to properly declare gifts during his tenure, Khan's disqualification from elections seems imminent. This outcome mirrors instances where other politicians, such as current Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and former Premier Nawaz Sharif, managed to overturn convictions to stage political comebacks.
The approaching dissolution of Parliament and the subsequent 90-day timeframe for elections raise speculation of a potential delay due to the release of new census data over the weekend. The law minister mentioned the necessity for constituency redrawing according to the census, warning of a possible delay of up to two-and-a-half months.
Khan's arrest in connection with the same case earlier in May led to violent clashes and a crackdown on his party's leadership, triggering the establishment of a replacement decision-making body. Despite these challenges, Khan's party secured a victory in a recent by-election and maintained a strong showing in another poll, indicating his enduring popularity.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres emphasized the importance of peaceful assembly and urged all parties to refrain from violence while respecting due process and the rule of law. Khan's arrest garnered less public outrage than his previous one, largely attributed to the government's crackdown and stringent laws, which have dampened citizens' reactions.
As Imran Khan navigates tough times behind bars, his fervor and enduring influence among the people remain palpable, prompting contemplation over his political future and engagement with the establishment.