Imprisoned former Prime Minister and Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan has firmly instructed his sons to stay away from Pakistan and to avoid participating in any political demonstrations, including the upcoming protest on August 5.

Speaking to reporters from Adiala Jail, Khan made it clear that his sons, Suleman Khan (28) and Kasim Khan (26), will not be involved in PTI’s protest efforts calling for his release. The protest has been planned by the party and is expected to draw large crowds.

Dispute Over Protest Involvement

This clarification comes in response to recent comments by Khan’s sister, Aleema Khan, who had suggested that his sons might join or lead the demonstration. Imran Khan firmly denied this claim, stating:

“My sons will not be coming to Pakistan. They will neither be part of any protest nor lead one,” Khan said from jail.

When asked specifically about his sister’s statement, he reiterated, “I’m telling you, they aren’t coming and they will not take part.”

Recent U.S. Visit

Khan’s sons were recently in the United States, reportedly meeting with U.S. lawmakers in what some sources describe as an informal lobbying effort for their father’s release. There had been speculation that their next move would be to join the protests in Pakistan, but Khan has now personally ruled that out.

PTI Responds

PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan also addressed the issue, confirming that the party has not coordinated with Imran Khan’s sons regarding any protest activities. He emphasized, however, that the sons have every right to visit and support their father, should they choose to do so in a personal capacity.

Khan’s Legal Battles Continue

Imran Khan, 71, has remained in custody since August 2023, facing a long list of legal cases that include corruption, terrorism, and charges related to the May 9 unrest. His removal from office through a no-confidence vote in April 2022 triggered widespread political turmoil, and his incarceration has since become a rallying cry for his party’s supporters.

As the August 5 protest approaches, Khan’s decision to keep his sons out of the spotlight appears to be a strategic effort to de-escalate potential controversies or international criticism, while maintaining focus on the domestic campaign for his release.