The opposition alliance’s sit-in over concerns about Imran Khan’s health entered its fourth day on Monday in Islamabad.
Authorities unexpectedly reopened all roads leading to Parliament House early Monday, allowing protesters greater access and marking a shift in protest conditions. The sit-in is led by Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) and Tehreek Tahafuz-i-Ayeen Pakistan (TTAP) after reports revealed Imran Khan has only 15 percent vision in his right eye.
TTAP spokesperson Akhunzada Yousafzai said the reopening was “unexpected” and would allow protesters to finally have proper meals after days of limited rations. The sit-in at Parliament Lodges has now merged with the main protest at Parliament House. Leaders including TTAP chief Mahmood Khan Achakzai and Allama Raja Nasir Abbas are at the forefront, while PTI lawmakers maintain pressure from Parliament Lodges and KP Chief Minister Sohail Afridi leads demonstrations at KP House.
Read more: PTI up in arms as medical team examines Imran in ‘absence’ of family
Sources said a team of doctors examined Imran Khan at Adiala Jail on Sunday but left after about an hour. PTI rejected the examination, claiming it was carried out without his family or personal doctors, calling it “malicious.” The alliance stressed that the government must submit a full report to the Supreme Court before any further steps.
PTI MNA Asad Qaiser warned that protests would continue until Imran Khan is transferred to Shifa International Hospital for proper treatment. He emphasized that the party will not compromise on the ex-premier’s health and plans to approach the Supreme Court to secure his medical rights.
Read more: Imran Khan undergoes medical examination at Adiala prison
TTAP also alleged that protesters inside Parliament House were denied access to food, water, and medicines for three consecutive days, calling it a violation of democratic and constitutional principles. The alliance said it would continue its sit-in until demands for Imran Khan’s hospital transfer and full medical transparency are met.