Imran Khan Health Sparks Fresh Concern as Arif Alvi Urges Immediate Hospitalisation

Fresh concerns have emerged over the health of former Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan, who remains imprisoned, after former President Arif Alvi called for his immediate transfer to a hospital.

Alvi said he had reviewed Khan’s recent medical reports with specialists and described the findings as worrying. In a statement shared on social media, he highlighted concerns involving anxiety and stress, episodes of heart palpitations and elevated blood pressure.

According to Alvi, Khan’s current condition deserves closer medical observation, particularly because of the prolonged period he has spent in detention. He said the former prime minister should undergo continuous cardiac monitoring, including the use of a 24-hour Holter monitor, while his blood pressure should also be checked regularly.

The former president further suggested that doctors assess Khan through a series of cardiac investigations, including a stress test and echocardiogram, with additional imaging or examinations to be considered by medical specialists where necessary.

Alvi linked the reported deterioration to the psychological pressure surrounding Khan’s prolonged imprisonment and isolation. He also pointed to limited access to family members, lawyers and information from outside the prison as factors contributing to concerns about the former premier’s wellbeing.

The former Pakistan president has therefore called for Khan to be shifted from the prison to a hospital, where his condition could be evaluated by an independent panel of doctors. Alvi argued that relying solely on government-appointed medical personnel has not provided sufficient confidence among Khan’s family and supporters.

The issue has also become increasingly sensitive for Khan’s political party, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI). Khan’s sons have previously raised concerns about their father’s limited access to family, lawyers and doctors, while PTI supporters have continued to demand improved medical access and his release.

Imran Khan has remained in prison since 2023 following his conviction in multiple cases. His supporters have repeatedly alleged that the legal proceedings against him are politically motivated, a claim Khan and his political camp have maintained throughout his imprisonment.

The latest health-related concerns are likely to add further pressure on Pakistani authorities over the treatment and medical care being provided to the former prime minister. For now, the immediate focus remains on whether Khan will receive further specialist evaluation or be transferred to a hospital for comprehensive medical monitoring.