ISLAMABAD – Political tensions in Pakistan have escalated over the eye treatment of former Prime Minister Imran Khan, founder of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI). On Tuesday morning, Khan underwent a follow-up procedure at an eye hospital, prompting sharp criticism from his party against the government’s handling of the matter.
PTI has accused the authorities of excessive secrecy surrounding Khan’s medical care. According to details emerging from the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS), Khan received the second dose of an anti-VEGF intravitreal injection on February 24 to treat his right central retinal vein occlusion (CRVO), first diagnosed in late January.
The initial procedure on January 24 was only confirmed by the government five days later, igniting a firestorm of accusations. PTI claims a lack of transparency, denial of proper care, and restrictions on access for Khan’s private doctors. Government officials firmly deny these allegations, insisting all protocols were followed.
A PIMS doctor revealed that a specialist board examined Khan prior to the procedure. A consultant cardiologist performed an echocardiography and ECG, with a consultant physician also present. The injection was administered under the guidance of a consultant vitreo-retinal surgeon from PIMS and Al-Shifa Eye Hospital in Rawalpindi.
The day-care surgery proceeded smoothly, with Khan’s condition stable throughout. He was discharged with care instructions, follow-up advice, and relevant documents. Notably, this differs from Shifa International Hospital in Islamabad, where Khan’s family and private doctors prefer to take him.
Parliamentary Affairs Minister Tariq Fazal Chaudhry addressed the issue on X, clarifying that the government transported Khan to PIMS under strict security while meeting all legal and humanitarian needs. He added that the third injection is scheduled for March 24.
PTI reacted swiftly to the minister’s post, expressing shock and demanding transparency over secrecy. ‘In such circumstances, transparency is needed, not secrecy,’ the party’s official X account stated, questioning what the government is hiding and reiterating calls to transfer Khan to Shifa International for independent care.
This ongoing saga underscores deep divisions between the ruling coalition and opposition, with Khan’s health becoming a flashpoint in Pakistan’s polarized politics. As accusations fly, the public awaits clearer answers on his medical transparency.