Wasim Akram Speaks Out on Imran Khan's Health Amid Imprisonment
Wasim Akram Addresses Imran Khan's Health Concerns
Former Pakistani cricket star Wasim Akram has finally shared his thoughts regarding the health of ex-captain and current Prime Minister Imran Khan, who is currently imprisoned.
Imran Khan has been incarcerated in Adiala Jail, Rawalpindi, since 2022 after being convicted in several corruption cases, including the Toshakhana gifts scandal and a land corruption charge. His wife, Bushra Bibi, is also in the same facility, facing her own legal challenges.
Earlier this year, alarming reports surfaced indicating that Imran had lost 80% of his vision in his right eye due to inadequate medical care during his extended solitary confinement. This prompted a group of 14 former international cricket captains, including Kapil Dev and Sunil Gavaskar, to advocate for immediate medical assistance and humane treatment for the former all-rounder.
‘Haven’t Spoken to Him For Three Years’
Many former Pakistani cricketers have faced criticism for their silence regarding the political turmoil and Imran Khan's imprisonment. However, Wasim Akram, who played under Khan's captaincy, has now spoken out.
In an interview with a sports publication, Akram revealed that he has not been in contact with his former captain for three years. He expressed that while the political situation is regrettable, legal issues should not overshadow fundamental human rights and medical care. Akram emphasized that his concerns stem from personal care and friendship rather than political views.
He stated, 'I haven't spoken to him for three years. It's unfortunate what's happening politically. The law is the law, but there should be no compromise regarding his health.' Akram expressed his worries, saying, 'We don't know the full extent of his health situation, and while the government claims he is fine, I am genuinely concerned. I miss him a lot.'
Concerns Over Imran Khan’s Jail Conditions
Akram further discussed Imran Khan's health and the conditions of his imprisonment, admitting uncertainty about whether adequate measures are being taken in Pakistan to address these issues. He contrasted local efforts with the more vocal advocacy campaigns emerging internationally.
'There’s a movement in England and other places to improve Imran's conditions, but here in Pakistan? I'm not so sure,' Akram remarked. He noted that while there was some public outcry in Pakistan, the government's claims about Khan's visitation and communication seemed hard to believe.
In August, a letter from 22 international cricket captains, including notable figures like Sunil Gavaskar and Brian Lara, reiterated their call to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif for transparency and adherence to Supreme Court directives regarding Imran Khan's health assessments.