Authorities in Lahore have detained Aleema Khan, the sister of former Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan, for 30 days under public order regulations. The detention follows rising political tensions ahead of a scheduled protest by the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party on September 27, which demands the release of the former leader.
Pakistani authorities detained Aleema Khan, the sister of jailed former Prime Minister Imran Khan, in Lahore on Sunday. The provincial government in Punjab invoked the Maintenance of Public Order Ordinance, 1960, to place her under a 30-day detention period. The arrest order was issued by the Deputy Commissioner of Lahore, citing concerns regarding public order. Following the issuance of the order, she was moved to the Kot Lakhpat jail.
The action occurs as the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party intensifies efforts to mobilize supporters for a nationwide demonstration scheduled for September 27. The party has been organizing rallies and public gatherings to advocate for the release of the former prime minister, who has remained in custody since 2023. This detention is viewed by political analysts as an attempt by the state to preemptively reduce the party’s organizational capacity ahead of the planned protest.
The PTI leadership has reacted to the arrest with opposition, describing the move as a targeted measure aimed at silencing family members advocating for the former premier. Sheikh Waqas Akram, the party’s central information secretary, criticized the administration and called for immediate judicial intervention. Under the legal framework of the ordinance used, individuals placed under administrative detention retain the right to challenge these orders in the High Court.
For regional observers, the political climate in Pakistan remains a factor influencing stability. Ongoing tensions between the state and the opposition often lead to disruptions in local commerce and transport, which can affect regional logistics. The ability of the government and the opposition to manage the upcoming September 27 demonstrations without significant escalation will be the next development to monitor.