In a dramatic turn of events, Aleema Khan and Uzma Khan, the sisters of former Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan, were arrested by law enforcement agencies in Islamabad today, as protests by the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party continue to escalate across the country.
The two women were detained while attempting to join PTI’s ongoing protest rally in the capital, which has attracted hundreds of supporters calling for the release of party leaders and a halt to what they describe as political victimization under the current government. Witnesses at the scene reported a tense standoff between PTI activists and police forces before the arrests were made.
Background: Aleema Khan, a prominent figure in PTI and an outspoken supporter of her brother Imran Khan, had been actively involved in organizing the party’s response to recent political developments. Uzma Khan, less politically engaged but still closely aligned with her brother’s ideology, was also seen at the forefront of protest events.
The protest in Islamabad today was part of a nationwide movement by PTI, demanding the restoration of democracy and the rule of law, as well as the end of alleged political repression against its leadership. Imran Khan himself has been facing a series of legal challenges, including corruption charges and a controversial disqualification from holding public office.
Arrests Spark Outrage: The arrest of Imran Khan’s sisters has sparked outrage among PTI supporters, who are condemning the move as politically motivated and an attempt to intimidate the Khan family. Party spokespersons have vowed to continue the protests, calling for the immediate release of Aleema and Uzma Khan.
“We will not rest until our leaders and their families are freed from the clutches of this oppressive regime,” said Fawad Chaudhry, a senior PTI leader. “This arrest is nothing but an attempt to break the spirit of our movement.”
Government Response: The federal government has defended the actions of law enforcement, stating that the arrests were made in accordance with the law, as the protestors had allegedly violated the terms of a court order limiting demonstrations in certain areas of Islamabad. Minister for Interior Affairs, Rana Sanaullah, stated, “No one is above the law, and those who engage in unlawful activities will face the consequences, regardless of their political connections.”
Global Reactions: The arrests have also drawn international attention, with various human rights organizations expressing concern over the growing crackdown on political dissent in Pakistan. The European Union and the United States have called for restraint and respect for the fundamental rights of citizens to protest peacefully.
As the situation unfolds, it remains to be seen how this latest development will impact PTI’s ongoing protests and its political trajectory in the coming days. The Khan family’s arrest has further intensified the political crisis, deepening divisions within Pakistan’s political landscape.env
