Donald Trump victory raised the speculations for Imran Khan’s release from jail. Trump secured victory in the 2024 presidential elections and returned to the White House as President.
As President Trump comes back to power, Imran Khan’s allies hope for good news related to the former Prime Minister’s release from jail.
Many believe that previously, Imran Khan and Trump had a strong connection and Trump victory could lead to diplomatic support for Khan’s freedom.
Many Pakistani analysts and politicians were closely observing the US Presidential elections and their outcomes and how they will affect the country’s political status. Donald Trump stood against the Democratic Candidate Kamala Harris and
The current political situation in the US seems favorable for Imran Khan, who has been imprisoned for over a year, following his arrest in the Toshakhana case.
Previously during Trump’s presidency, United States of America – Pakistan relations witnessed good interactions. Trump’s South Asia policy aligned at times with Khan’s agenda.
However, when Joe Biden took over the presidential post, Pakistan’s and American diplomatic ties became cooler significantly.
Pakistan Tehrek-e-Insaf supporters and Imran Khan allies believe Trump victory, will prompt would enhance diplomatic policy towards Pakistan. This swift action to pressure the government for Khan’s release.
Back in 2019, Imran Khan visited the White House, where Trump openly termed him a Good Friend. The two leaders met again in 2020, to enhance their ties. According to the senior leaders of PTI, Trump’s win can be crucial for securing Khan’s release.
A few weeks before, political rumors surfaced in Islamabad about an alleged meeting between a U.S. delegation and Khan. The rumors fueled the speculation about US involvement in Pakistan’s political situation.
However, the Pakistani government neither confirmed nor denied the reports.
Imran Khan, who was once a cricket star and prime minister from 2018 to 2022, faced multiple convictions, including charges of treason and corruption cases.
Imran was sentenced to prison in August 2023, after being found guilty in the Toshakhana case.
Despite his imprisonment, PTI has continued its political campaign, with party members vowing to carry on Khan’s legacy in his absence, even amid arrests, alleged torture, and harassment in the lead-up to the general elections in February 2024.
Even the United Nations called for Khan’s immediate release, labeling his detention as a violation of international human rights laws. Despite these international calls, the path to freedom for Khan remains uncertain.
Senior PTI leader Taimor Saleem Khan Jhagra expressed cautious optimism, noting the strong personal relationship between Trump and Khan. “We are hopeful that a Trump victory could improve the situation for Imran Khan,” Jhagra said. “Trump’s influence, especially on issues of democracy and human rights, could be pivotal.”
