A tense courtroom encounter unfolded Saturday between Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan’s sister, Aleema Khan, and former party MNA Kanwal Shauzab, following the circulation of a video in which Shauzab appeared to criticize Aleema.
In the video, Shauzab allegedly criticized Aleema for disrespecting party officials and interim chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan, claiming she was working to destroy the party and intended to confront her directly over the issue.
During a hearing at the Anti-Terrorism Court (ATC) in Rawalpindi, both women briefly exchanged words. Shauzab approached Aleema, saying, "Aleema Apa, I want to talk to you." Aleema responded, “Just leave it, it’s fine. Many people speak against us. We are now used to such accusations."
Shauzab attempted to clarify, saying, “A specific portion of an old video was selectively edited and used against me,” but Aleema walked away, seemingly ignoring her attempt at reconciliation.
Meanwhile, the ATC rejected Aleema Khan’s petition seeking exemption from court appearances and permission to travel abroad for fundraising events.
Aleema’s legal team argued she had been invited as a chief guest to events for Namal University and Shaukat Khanum Memorial Hospital in the UK, but prosecutor Zaheer Shah opposed the request, stating she had no active role in the fundraising activities.
Read more: PHC grants protective bail to Imran's sister
The court later issued a written verdict, denying the petition and rejecting her plea to travel abroad.
Speaking to the media after the hearing, Aleema expressed frustration over being denied permission to travel. "I’ve been going around courts for the past week seeking travel permission. Why are you afraid of me?" she questioned.
She also criticized the comparisons being made between her case and high-profile scandals involving figures like Ayyan Ali and Khawaja Asif, stating, “Even those involved in major scandals were granted bail. The only accusation against me is that I conveyed a message from Imran Khan to party workers — and for that, I’m facing legal action."
Addressing the issue of political dynasties, Aleema said, "Yes, we are hereditary, and we are standing with our brother. No one can stop us."
She reiterated that the family is united behind Imran Khan and determined to secure his release. “The founder of PTI is not alone — his family is with him. This is our duty and we will fulfill it,” she added. "We are standing by him in this battle — in this struggle."
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