UN Calls for Constructive Change in situation of Imran Khan

The United Nations, spokesperson Stephane Dujarric expressed optimism for a positive evolution in the situation of jailed former Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan. Addressing concerns during a daily press briefing, Dujarric underscored the UN Secretary-General’s desire for a more favorable outcome regarding Khan’s current predicament.

Khan, founder of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party, has been incarcerated since last August, facing various legal challenges, some of which his party claims are politically motivated. Despite recent legal victories that have temporarily suspended certain sentences, Khan continues to be detained amidst ongoing legal proceedings.

The UN Working Group on Arbitrary Detention (WGAD) issued a unanimous recommendation advocating for Khan’s immediate release, citing violations of international law in his detention. The group’s opinion characterized Khan’s imprisonment as arbitrary and part of a broader campaign of repression against him and his political allies.

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Responding to the UNWGAD’s recommendation, Pakistan’s Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar dismissed the report as an internal matter, reaffirming Pakistan’s adherence to constitutional and legal processes.

Imran Khan, ousted from power via a no-confidence motion in April 2022, faces a spectrum of charges ranging from corruption to terrorism since his removal from office. Despite legal ups and downs, including recent acquittals and sentence suspensions, Khan remains detained due to convictions in certain cases.