Pakistan Opposition Protest Enters 5th Day Over Imran Khan

February 17, 2026

Islamabad, Feb 17 — Protests led by the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) and the opposition alliance Tehreek Tahaffuz-e-Aiyeen Pakistan (TTAP) entered their fifth consecutive day on Tuesday, with lawmakers vowing to continue a sit-in outside Parliament House until their demands are met. Demonstrators are pressing the government to grant access to jailed former prime minister Imran Khan and allow him to consult with his personal doctors amid concerns over his health.

Opposition leaders, including Senate Opposition Leader Allama Raja Nasir Abbas, reiterated that the protest would not end until at least one-party representative is permitted to meet Imran Khan in person. “Until our office-bearer is allowed to meet him, the sit-in must go on,” he said, underscoring the alliance’s resolve.

Health of Imran Khan at Heart of Demonstrations

The sit-in was triggered by concerns about Khan’s deteriorating health particularly his eyesight after reports emerged that he has lost a significant portion of vision in his right eye. Earlier this week, a group of medical specialists examined the former premier in Adiala Jail, but PTI leaders and supporters rejected the inspection, demanding that personal physicians and family members be present during medical evaluations.

Protesters have called for Khan to be shifted to a hospital such as Shifa International Hospital in Islamabad for comprehensive treatment under close medical supervision. They argue that transparency and independent examination are essential for public confidence in his care.

Opposition’s Conditions and Ongoing Strategy

Throughout the demonstration, opposition figures, including National Assembly Opposition Leader Mehmood Khan Achakzai and former National Assembly Speaker Asad Qaiser, have maintained that their core demand remains access to Khan and clarity on his medical condition. They have reiterated that the sit-in will continue “indefinitely” until the government accedes to their terms.

Allama Raja Nasir Abbas also said consultations among opposition parliamentarians are ongoing to map out the future course of action if their demands aren’t met, highlighting that trust has eroded after repeated delays and conflicting information regarding Khan’s condition.

Government Response and Political Tensions

The federal government has rejected claims of denying Khan medical care and maintained that he is receiving appropriate treatment. Information Minister Attaullah Tarar denied rumours of any special deal or leniency for PTI, framing the medical handling as consistent with legal protocols.

Meanwhile, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi clarified that PTI had not officially called for street protests and emphasised the party’s strategy was focused on the sit-in at Parliament House rather than broader public demonstrations.

Wider Implications and Next Steps

As the sit-in continues, the political standoff highlights mounting tensions between the government and opposition over accountability, legal rights, and transparency in the treatment of a major political figure. With no immediate resolution in sight, the protest adds another chapter to Pakistan’s volatile political landscape as parties push for concessions and clarity in Khan’s health and incarceration circumstances.