Islamabad backtracks on secrecy claims, assuring visas and access while detention conditions spark renewed political controversy nationwide.
The Pakistan government on Saturday moved to quell mounting speculation by publicly clarifying that there is no embargo preventing the sons of former prime minister Imran Khan from meeting their incarcerated father—should they choose to travel to the country.
A senior government official stated that the brothers would be granted Pakistani visas without obstruction, directly contradicting reports suggesting that authorities had quietly restricted family visits. Those reports alleged that some meetings were being curtailed on grounds that visitors were using access to the former premier to advance political messaging.
The clarification follows growing concern from Khan’s family and his party, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), who have questioned both the transparency of visitation rules and the conditions under which the former prime minister is being held. PTI figures have accused the government of selectively enforcing access to isolate Khan and suppress political momentum ahead of key developments.
Officials insisted that visitation protocols remain governed by standard prison regulations and denied any politically motivated interference. “There is no ban,” the official emphasized, adding that any eligible family member may apply and receive permission in accordance with the law.
The episode highlights the deep mistrust defining Pakistan’s political climate, where even routine administrative decisions are viewed through a lens of power struggles and repression. As scrutiny intensifies over Khan’s incarceration, the government’s assurance appears aimed at defusing criticism—at least for now—while avoiding further escalation with his supporters.
