On Thursday, the Police blocked multiple opposition leaders and relatives of the former prime minister of Imran Khan to meet him in Adiala Jail, generating protests outside the facilities.
Among the detainees were Imran’s sister, Aleema Khan, her two sisters, opposition leader in the National Assembly, Omar Ayub, the leader of PTI Sartaj Gul, Sahibzada Hamid Raza, Niazullah Niazi and several others.
The security personnel deployed at various police control points rejected them, citing security concerns.
Aleem Khan and his sisters organized a protest sitting in the police blockade, refusing to leave.
“We were sure that we would find it today, but once again, they are lying to us,” Aleem told journalists. The family said they would not leave until it was granted access.
At a separate control point, Omar Ayub was intercepted. Speaking to the media, Ayub criticized the government for what he called “economic deception” and questioned his management of national funds, especially in relation to Baluchistan.
He accused the government of ‘dishonesty and poor governance of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.
PTI’s Sartej Gul was also denied entry near the Daighal control point.
She condemned the blockade, calling him politically motivated. “Adiala Road has closed and turned this into a show. They are afraid that we will meet our leader,” he told the journalists. He also criticized government officials for “double standard” and “misuse of authority.”
The Sahibzada religious leader Hamid Raza and Niazullah Niazi were arrested similarly. Hamid Raza expressed his frustration for what he called “selective permits” granted for visits to the prison.
“Imran Khan represents the nation. If this is how a former prime minister is, how can common citizens expect justice?” said.
Race also rejected claims that suggested divisions within the opposition ranges. “I will never be part of any compromised group. I reject the commitment to contempt,” he added, referring to the alleged rear door political treatment.
Earlier this week, judicial orders had allowed visits for certain names presented by the legal team of Imran Khan.
However, several leaders affirmed that they were denied access despite being on the approved list.
