Imran Khan's son urges world action as Pakistan braces for major protests

The son of jailed ex-Prime Minister Imran Khan has called on the international community to intervene against what he describes as authoritarian practices by Pakistan's current leadership, as the country faces the prospect of major protest marches.

The family statement characterizes the actions taken against them as part of a broader pattern of suppression, describing the situation as "disgraceful" and signaling the Khan family's continued defiance despite ongoing legal pressures.

Imran Khan, who was removed from office in 2022, has faced multiple legal challenges since his ouster. His imprisonment and the detention of other Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party members have become contentious issues, drawing criticism from international observers and human rights organizations.

The planned demonstrations represent a significant mobilization of Khan's supporters, who have staged periodic protests demanding his release and challenging the current government's legitimacy. Security forces are reportedly preparing for large-scale policing operations ahead of the marches.

The situation underscores the deep political divisions in Pakistan between the PTI and the current ruling coalition, with the Khan family's appeals to international actors reflecting their assessment that domestic legal remedies have been exhausted.