Former British Prime Minister Boris Johnson has urged the UK government to use its influence to help secure the release of former Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan, describing his continued imprisonment as a serious concern.
In a column published by the Daily Mail, Johnson criticised Khan’s treatment in prison and called for his appeal to be heard promptly by an independent court. He also urged Britain to take a stronger position on the case, citing the longstanding ties between the UK and Pakistan.
Johnson raised concerns about Khan’s reported prison conditions and access to medical care. He also referred to Khan’s British connections, noting that his two sons hold British passports and that Khan was educated and played cricket in Britain.
The former UK premier acknowledged that he had disagreed with some of Khan’s political positions, including his views on the United States and Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. However, Johnson argued that such disagreements did not justify what he described as Khan’s treatment in custody.
Johnson also questioned why Britain had not exerted greater diplomatic pressure, saying the UK has significant historical and social links with Pakistan.
Khan has remained imprisoned since August 2023 after facing multiple legal cases. He and his supporters have described the cases as politically motivated, while Pakistani authorities have rejected allegations of unlawful treatment and maintained that he is being held under legal and prison procedures.
Johnson concluded his article with a direct call for Khan’s release, urging Britain to use its influence to press for action.
