Imran Khan, the former Prime Minister of Pakistan, was moved to a private hospital in Islamabad after midnight on Thursday. His political party, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), shared this information. The transfer occurred following a Supreme Court order earlier in the week. A senior Cabinet minister had earlier assured compliance with the court’s directive concerning Khan’s healthcare.

The government mentioned the possibility of treatment abroad if local government facilities could not provide adequate care. Khan was taken from Adiala prison to Shifa International Hospital. PTI’s statement did not detail whether Khan would return to prison after medical examination or remain in the hospital for ongoing treatment. His party and family have expressed their wish for him to stay in the hospital.

Parliamentary Affairs Minister Tariq Fazal Chaudhry stated that the government sought clarification from the Supreme Court on whether the medical relief order for Khan extended to other prisoners. His comments followed a recent Supreme Court decision for Khan’s examination by a medical board, which includes specialists and his personal physician, Faisal Sultan. Concerns about Khan’s health have been prevalent, particularly from his family and personal doctors.

Earlier in the day, Chaudhry assured that the government would adhere to the Supreme Court’s ruling. He clarified that the request for clarification was not a means to delay the decision’s implementation. All necessary arrangements for Khan’s transfer from prison to the hospital had been completed. Local media reported that Khan was being examined at the hospital shortly after his transfer.

Authorities have stated that existing protocols allow for prisoners to receive medical treatment within prisons, with transfers to government hospitals when needed. The discussion on Khan’s health escalated after his family claimed he lost significant vision in his right eye, a point contested by the government. Officials later stated that his vision had largely recovered.

Since his removal from office in April 2022 through a parliamentary vote of no-confidence, Khan has been imprisoned on multiple charges since 2023.