Introduction
Imran Khan, a former cricket legend turned politician, served as the 22nd Prime Minister of Pakistan from 2018 to 2022. Revered for leading Pakistan to its only Cricket World Cup victory in 1992, Khan transitioned into politics by founding the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party in 1996. Known for his populist rhetoric and anti-corruption stance, Khan has remained a central figure in Pakistan’s political landscape, often drawing both national and international attention for his leadership style and policy positions.Let me know if you’d like it tailored for a specific story angle political, legal, sports, etc.
Imran Khan is currently in prison due to a 14-year sentence handed down in January 2025 in the Al-Qadir Trust corruption case. He and his wife were found guilty of misusing funds and accepting land in exchange for political favors. Although earlier convictions in other cases (like Toshakhana and Cypher) were suspended or overturned, this sentence remains valid. His party claims the cases are politically motivated.
Mass Sentencing of PTI Leaders and Supporters:
On July 31–August 1, 2025, a Pakistani anti-terrorism court issued sweeping verdicts sentencing over 100 members of Imran Khan’s Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party including prominent figures like Omar Ayub Khan and Shibli Faraz to up to 10 years in prison for their alleged roles in the May 2023 riots, which included attacks on military installations. Some received shorter sentences, while 77 defendants were acquitted due to insufficient evidence. The verdicts have been widely condemned by PTI as politically motivated aimed at weakening the party’s influence.
“Free Imran Khan” Movement & Protests Begin:
In mid-July 2025, PTI initiated its “Free Imran Khan” campaign ahead of the planned formal launch on August 5, marking two years since Khan’s imprisonment. Riots and arrests occurred in Lahore, where PTI vice-chairman and KP Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur led demonstrations. At least 20 PTI workers were arrested during police crackdowns in Lahore though authorities deny specifically targeting them. The protests signal rising unrest and mobilization within PTI’s base.
Jemima Goldsmith Speaks Out for Family Access:
On July 11, 2025, Jemima Goldsmith, Imran Khan’s ex-wife, publicly criticized the Pakistani government for denying contact between Khan and their two sons, Suleman and Qasim. She claimed the children were being threatened with arrest if they attempted to visit Pakistan. Human rights observers view this as reflective of broader concerns over Khan’s detention conditions and legal rights.
Political Negotiations Collapse & PTI’s Failed Dialogue:
Between December 2024 and January 2025, PTI entered talks with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s government mediated by National Assembly Speaker Ayaz Sadiq. PTI demanded the release of political prisoners and formation of judicial commissions. However, negotiations collapsed by late January, prompting PTI to resume street protests and observe February 8 as a “Black Day” to highlight alleged electoral manipulation.
Legal Battles and Detentions: Imran Khan’s Continued Incarceration:
Imran Khan remains imprisoned since August 2023, facing upwards of 150 legal charges including corruption, incitement, and Tosha Khana violations. He was earlier sentenced to 14 years in the Al‑Qadir Trust case (January 2025), and also convicted in a separate Toshakhana reference case, though bail was granted by Islamabad High Court in April–November 2024. He and his wife, Bushra Bibi, were also sentenced (later overturned) in the 2024 Iddat case. Human rights organizations and the UN have criticized his detention and reportedly harsh prison conditions.
Broader Context & Political Fallout:
- The July 2025 sentencing is the third mass conviction in recent months targeting PTI members. PTI officials have condemned the rulings and plan to file appeals.
- PTI leadership is reportedly weighing boycotting the National Assembly and pursuing street protests to pressure the government.
- Despite PTI winning the most seats in the February 2024 elections, they were prevented from forming a government, with critics accusing military-backed interference.
The current political climate in Pakistan is deeply polarized, with Imran Khan’s imprisonment and widespread legal action against his party marking a turning point in PTI’s influence. As formal protests ramp up and PTI mobilizes again, tensions with the ruling establishment and
PTI protest in Pakistan on August 5, 2025:
- Nationwide demonstrations were held under the banner of the Movement for Protection of Constitution of Pakistan, marking the second anniversary of Imran Khan’s arrest .
Police responses and arrests:
- Over 200 PTI activists were detained in Lahore ahead of planned protests .
- Nationwide, police arrested more than 200 supporters in cities including Lahore, Karachi, and Rawalpindi, where the government had banned public gatherings around the protest date .
Tactics and road closures:
- In Islamabad, the PTI announced a guerrilla-style strategy of road blockades and brief gatherings designed to disperse before arrests, after being denied permission for a major rally in F‑9 Park .
- Authorities preemptively sealed major roads in Punjab including Lahore using containers, planning ahead to suppress mobility during protest day .
PTI internal dynamics:
- The day also featured the launch of an informal “Free Imran Khan” movement, escalating tensions between PTI and the ruling establishment .
- PTI leadership emphasized constitutionalism and legal rule, bringing focus to Imran Khan’s continued incarceration and recent political disqualifications of party officials .
Key Figures and Timeline:
| Aspect
|
Details |
| Occasions | PTI’s protest marking two years since Imran Khan’s arrest, demanding his release and constitutional rule.
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| Organizers | Pakistan Tehreek‑e‑Insaf under banner “Movement for Protection of Constitution,” supervised by Salman Akram Raja; MNAs and senators gathered at Adiala Jail under Aleema Khan’s leadership. |
| Locations | Demonstrations across Pakistan: major activity in Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Lahore, Karachi, and other cities. |
| Government’s response | Public gathering bans imposed in Islamabad and Rawalpindi; tight security, mobile and internet restrictions, and significant arrests reported.
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| Arrests & Crackdown, | More than 200 protesters detained nationwide (notably in Rawalpindi and Lahore), with use of batons and tear gas by police. Includes high‑profile PTI members such as 73‑year‑old Rehana Dar.
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| Political Context | PTI campaigning nationwide as part of a 90‑day “Free Imran Khan” initiative. New Federal Constabulary force formed amid concerns over crackdown on dissent.
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| Overarching Impact, | Escalating political standoff: PTI asserts increasing repression, while the government employs broad security measures. Imran Khan’s incarceration remains a central flashpoint.
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Summary
- August 5, 2025 saw PTI-led protests across Pakistan, commemorating the second anniversary of Imran Khan’s arrest and demanding judicial justice.
- Despite intense state restrictions, including road closures and mass arrests, PTI mobilized local demonstrations.
- The protest highlighted PTI’s shift to decentralized tactics and amplified political tensions, especially through the new “Free Imran Khan” campaign.
Here are the looks of the protest:
