A Pakistani court has handed prison terms to 108 members of former Prime Minister Imran Khan’s political party, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), in connection with violent demonstrations that erupted after Khan’s arrest last year. The sentences, which include a decade-long imprisonment for senior opposition figure Omar Ayub Khan, mark another escalation in the ongoing legal pressure on the party.
The unrest began in May 2023 when security forces detained Khan on corruption allegations, sparking nationwide protests. Supporters clashed with authorities, leading to at least ten deaths and widespread damage to government and military sites. Since then, dozens of PTI members have faced convictions, with critics alleging politically motivated prosecutions.
The latest verdicts also barred six PTI lawmakers from holding office, drawing sharp condemnation from the opposition. In a statement, PTI called the rulings unprecedented, accusing the judiciary of punishing leaders solely for their political alignment. The party has vowed to appeal the decision.
Khan, a former cricket star turned politician, remains imprisoned on multiple charges, including terrorism and leaking state secrets. Despite his incarceration, he retains significant public support. His allies warn that the continued legal crackdown threatens Pakistan’s democratic stability.
“Sentencing opposition figures one after another sets a dangerous precedent,” said a close aide to Khan. “This undermines democracy at a time when the country can least afford it.”
PTI candidates secured the most seats in this year’s elections but were prevented from forming a government. The party alleges electoral interference, further deepening political tensions.
The convictions come amid growing scrutiny of Pakistan’s judicial independence and the military’s influence over politics. Analysts suggest the crackdown reflects broader efforts to sideline Khan’s movement ahead of future political contests.
As legal battles continue, the fallout from the 2023 protests continues to reshape Pakistan’s political landscape, with no clear resolution in sight.
