PTI condemns arrest of Imran's cousin

LAHORE:

Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) has condemned the arrest of Qasim Khan, an extended family member of party founder Imran Khan, who was taken into custody while on his way to Adiala Jail, alleging that he had no involvement in political activity.

PTI Central Information Secretary Sheikh Waqas Akram said Qasim had reached the jail on Tuesday to meet family members on the scheduled day for relatives to meet the incarcerated former prime minister.

Akram said Qasim was neither a political office-bearer nor involved in political activities, questioning the legal basis for his detention.

"Qasim Khan is not part of any political activity. He is an ordinary citizen and a member of Imran Khan's family," Akram said, according to a statement issued by the party.

Qasim has in recent months become a visible figure around Imran Khan's family, particularly as the former prime minister's incarceration has increasingly involved his relatives, lawyers and party representatives.

He was initially seen accompanying and assisting Imran Khan and was later seen alongside the former premier's sisters as they campaigned for his release and sought to ensure that he received appropriate medical treatment following reports about his deteriorating health in jail.

Qasim also became involved in coordinating the family's affairs, including communication and arrangements involving Imran Khan's family, the media, lawyers and, at times, the party. He was seen helping coordinate meetings and other matters concerning the former premier and his family.

His visibility increased as Imran Khan's wife, Bushra Bibi, and his sisters faced arrests and restrictions while seeking access to him.

Akram described Qasim's detention as another instance of what he termed the targeting of Imran Khan's family.

He questioned why the Punjab government would be concerned about a person who, according to him, had never held political office, engaged in political activity or issued political statements.