Aleema Khan revealed on Wednesday that Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Founder Imran Khan has announced August 14 as the new date for a nationwide protest, urging people to come out in large numbers against what he described as ongoing state oppression.
Talking to reporters outside Adiala Jail during the Toshakhana II case hearing on Wednesday, Aleema Khan shared details of a meeting between Imran Khan, his wife Bushra Bibi, and his sister Uzma Khan.
“He was pleased to hear about the people’s protest yesterday despite immense pressure and obstacles. He said the dictators of the past did not commit the kind of excesses being seen today,” she said.
Protest call for August 14
Aleema Khan said the former prime minister is calling on PTI supporters and the general public to take to the streets on Independence Day in protest. “He has told his leadership not to fear jails or arrests. This is a fight for the rule of law, which he says has completely collapsed in the country. The media is controlled even today, but sacrifices have to be made to obtain freedom,” she stated.
Imran Khan reportedly stressed that no one should be appointed to the seats of disqualified PTI lawmakers, calling their removal illegal.
Message to KP govt and Ali Amin Gandapur
The PTI founder has also sent a clear message to the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government, demanding an immediate halt to the ongoing operations in the province. Aleema Khan quoted him as saying, “If Ali Amin Gandapur cannot stop the operation, he should reconsider his position.”
Imran Khan also called for resolving internal issues through traditional jirga systems instead of force, warning that the ongoing operations are aimed at fueling public resentment against PTI in KP.
Concerns over legal proceedings
Aleema Khan strongly criticized the trial of the Toshakhana II case, calling it “illegal and hidden from the public eye.” She said the family, lawyers, and even the media have been kept away from court proceedings. “Only one of our lawyers is allowed in, while ten prosecutors appear from the other side,” she added.
She further alleged that the aim is to quickly punish PTI leadership, noting that the legal team has said this trial should not even be taking place.
Crackdown and protest suppression
Aleema Khan detailed how PTI supporters were stopped at Chakri Interchange and how police presence near Adiala Jail included personnel armed with tear gas. “The police themselves told us they stand with the founder,” she claimed, adding, “The mafia is now isolated. The people are rising.”
She expressed joy over the public’s protest in major cities, including Karachi, Lahore, and Peshawar. “The people want to come out for their rights. They are not afraid anymore,” she said.
Allegations against Election Commission and threats
She accused the Election Commission of rushing to disqualify PTI leaders, saying many have already been punished unfairly. “Even we are receiving threats,” Aleema added, without elaborating.
‘Sacrifices needed for freedom’
Aleema Khan concluded by quoting Imran Khan’s statements, emphasizing the need for sacrifice. “He said Yahya Khan divided the country for power, and similar oppression is happening now. He’s never complained about his own suffering but urges the nation to fight for its freedom.”
“Imran Khan pays tribute to the people of KP and Punjab for rising up,” she added. “This is no longer about politics — it’s about survival, dignity, and justice.”
