Rawalpindi, October 5, 2024 – Former Prime Minister Imran Khan marked his 72nd birthday today behind bars at Adiala Jail, where he has been incarcerated since his arrest earlier this year. Despite being confined, the political leader’s supporters and party members found ways to commemorate the day, sending messages of solidarity and support for their leader, who remains at the center of Pakistan’s political landscape.
Imran Khan, the chairman of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), was arrested in August 2024 following his conviction in a corruption case. His detention has sparked widespread protests, with PTI supporters calling for his release and accusing the government of political persecution.
Inside the jail, sources indicate that Khan spent the day in relatively quiet reflection, as the harsh realities of his imprisonment continue to mount. However, he received visitors, including close aides and family members, who briefly spoke to him in an effort to lift his spirits. Despite the circumstances, Khan’s birthday was marked by messages from political allies and supporters, including prominent PTI figures, who expressed their unwavering loyalty to the leader.
In a message posted on social media, the PTI said: “Today, our leader, Imran Khan, celebrates his 72nd birthday with unmatched resilience. Even behind bars, his spirit remains unbroken. We stand by him, as do millions of Pakistanis who continue to support his vision for a free and just Pakistan.”
International human rights organizations have also raised concerns about Khan’s health and well-being in jail, with some urging the Pakistani government to ensure he receives proper medical care.
While Khan’s birthday celebration may have been subdued compared to previous years, his supporters remain adamant that his struggle for justice is far from over. Protests and demonstrations in several cities are expected as his party continues to demand his release and push for reforms to Pakistan’s political system.
Imran Khan’s birthday this year serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing political turmoil in Pakistan, where the battle for power continues to divide the nation. Despite his incarceration, Khan’s political influence remains strong, with many seeing him as a symbol of resistance to the current political establishment.
