UN Working Group Deems Imran Khan’s Detention Arbitrary, Calls for Immediate Release
The UN Working Group on Arbitrary Detention has declared the detention of former Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan as arbitrary and in violation of international law. The group has called for his immediate release and compensation in accordance with international law.
Imran Khan, who came to power in 2018 and was removed in a no-confidence vote in 2022, has been in jail since last August on various charges. His party alleges that the cases against him are politically motivated to keep him out of power.
The working group highlighted that Khan’s arrest and detention in certain cases were without legal basis and appeared to be politically motivated. They called on Islamabad to publicize the UN report and ensure a full independent investigation into the circumstances of Khan’s detention.
The Pakistani government has not yet responded to the opinion. The working group emphasized that no trial should have taken place, considering Khan’s age, he is facing an effective life sentence in prison. It is crucial for Islamabad to take appropriate actions against those responsible for violating Khan’s rights.
Source: Anadolu Agency