Sat Dec 13 12:49:50 UTC 2025: News Article:

UN Expert Condemns “Inhumane” Detention of Former Pakistani PM Imran Khan

Islamabad – December 13, 2025 – A United Nations expert has called on the Pakistani government to urgently address concerns regarding the detention conditions of former Prime Minister Imran Khan, citing reports of “inhumane and undignified” treatment.

Alice Jill Edwards, the UN Special Rapporteur on torture, stated that Mr. Khan’s prolonged solitary confinement, lasting since August 2023 in Adiala Jail, could constitute psychological torture under international human rights law. She emphasized that extended isolation can severely impact his physical and mental health.

Ms. Edwards alleged that Mr. Khan is being denied outdoor activity, interaction with other detainees, and participation in communal prayers. Furthermore, visits from lawyers and family are reportedly being frequently disrupted.

The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province Chief Minister Muhammad Sohaib Afridi echoed these concerns, claiming that Mr. Khan and his wife, Bushra Bibi, are facing mistreatment. Afridi stated he has been repeatedly denied access to meet with the former Prime Minister.

However, Prime Minister’s Adviser on Political Affairs, Rana Sanaullah, alleged that Afridi’s denied meeting was based on intelligence reports that Khan was planning protests similar to November 26.

The UN release also highlighted Mr. Khan’s existing health issues, including a serious spinal injury and gunshot wounds from a previous assassination attempt. The Special Rapporteur has raised Mr. Khan’s situation with the Government of Pakistan and will continue to monitor the situation.

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