ISLAMABAD – Former Prime Minister Imran Khan is unlikely to be released anytime soon unless there is a major political deal, a legal breakthrough, or unexpected court relief, sources say. They believe that if his confrontational political strategy continues, he could remain behind bars throughout 2026 and possibly beyond.
According to Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) insiders, the party’s hardliners are still sticking to a policy of confrontation. However, moderate members are increasingly concerned about Khan’s continued imprisonment and the political deadlock. They argue that unless the party shifts from its current aggressive stance, there will be no path to his release.
Read more: IHC to hear petition suspension of Imran Khan’s X account
Party sources note that both Imran Khan and his wife, Bushra Bibi, face multiple complex legal cases, making a quick resolution unlikely. Their appeals against the Al-Qadir Trust conviction have not yet been scheduled for hearing in the Islamabad High Court. Before the appeals can be heard, the court must first take up their petitions for suspension of the sentences — but no hearing dates have been set so far.
Under the High Court’s “fixation policy,” cases are heard in the order they are filed. The policy, guided by the National Judicial Policy Making Committee (NJPMC), prioritizes older and more serious cases, especially those involving death sentences or life imprisonment. Since the Al-Qadir Trust appeal was filed on January 31, 2024, and no hearing has yet taken place, legal experts believe it is unlikely to be taken up this year due to the backlog.
Read more: ATC Sentences Top PTI Leaders to 10 Years in May 9 Riots Case
Sources further revealed that the Toshakhana-II case against Khan is nearing conclusion and could add to his legal troubles if another conviction is handed down. In addition, several May 9-related cases remain pending, giving prosecutors multiple avenues to prolong the legal process. Even in a best-case scenario — where Khan is acquitted in key cases — the process could take many months. Therefore, unless an extraordinary political or judicial development occurs, insiders predict that Imran Khan’s imprisonment may extend well into or even beyond 2026.