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Pakistan’s ex-PM Imran Khan reportedly moved to hospital from jail

Al Jazeera · 2026-08-20

AI SUMMARY

• What happened: Pakistan's former Prime Minister Imran Khan has been transferred from Adiala Jail to Shifa International Hospital for medical treatment following a Supreme Court order. • Why it matters: The transfer raises concerns about Khan's health and highlights ongoing political tensions, as his supporters claim the corruption charges against him are politically motivated. • What to watch next: Khan is expected to remain hospitalized until at least his next court hearing on September 16, which could significantly influence his legal situation and health care arrangements.

**Title: Pakistan’s Ex-PM Imran Khan Transferred to Hospital Following Supreme Court Order**

*Islamabad, Pakistan – August 20, 2026* – Imran Khan, the former Prime Minister of Pakistan, has been moved from Adiala Jail in Rawalpindi to Shifa International Hospital in Islamabad for medical treatment, following a directive from the Supreme Court of Pakistan. The transfer, which took place late Thursday, was executed by police and security personnel, as reported by local media.

The Supreme Court issued the order for Khan's transfer earlier in the week, mandating that it be completed within two days. The decision comes amidst ongoing concerns regarding Khan's health, which have been raised by both his political party, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), and his family. Authorities had reportedly made the necessary preparations for the transfer prior to the Supreme Court's deadline.

Khan, who is 73 years old, has been incarcerated since August 2023, following his conviction in several corruption-related cases. His supporters and party members have consistently claimed that these charges are politically motivated. The former cricket star was ousted from office in April 2022 through a parliamentary no-confidence vote.

As part of the Supreme Court's order, Khan is to be examined by a medical board that includes his personal physician. His legal representative, Uzair Bhandari, indicated that Khan is expected to remain hospitalized until at least his next court hearing, scheduled for September 16. This transfer marks the longest duration that Khan will be outside of jail since his imprisonment began.

The PTI party has been actively advocating for Khan's medical needs, and they broadcasted live updates of the preparations for his transfer. However, as of now, there has been no official statement released by PTI regarding the transfer, nor has the Pakistani government commented on the situation.

The transfer of Khan to a hospital setting has raised various reactions within the political landscape of Pakistan, with the government having previously filed a petition against the Supreme Court's decision. The ongoing legal battles surrounding Khan's imprisonment and the allegations of political motivations behind his conviction continue to be a focal point of contention in Pakistani politics.

As the situation unfolds, both supporters and critics of Khan are closely monitoring developments, particularly with the upcoming court hearing that could further impact his legal standing and health care arrangements.

Source: Al Jazeera
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