On August 1, 2025, Aleema Khan, the sister of Imran Khan, the founder of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), announced that his sons, Suleiman Khan (28) and Kasim Khan (26), have applied for Pakistani visas.
In a post on X, she mentioned that the Pakistan High Commission in London is currently awaiting approval from the Ministry of Interior in Islamabad. Although the brothers are British nationals, they hold National Identity Cards for Overseas Pakistanis, making them eligible for Pakistani citizenship.
Suleiman and Kasim first publicly addressed their father’s imprisonment in May 2025. Last month, Aleema mentioned that they would visit the United States before returning to Pakistan as part of a movement to secure Imran’s release. During their trip to the U.S., the siblings engaged with U.S. lawmakers on the issue. Imran Khan has been incarcerated since August 2023 due to a £190 million corruption case at Adiala Jail and is facing trials under the Anti-Terrorism Act related to the protests that occurred on May 9, 2023.
A few days ago Suleiman and Kasim applied for their visas with the Pakistan high commission in London. The ambassador has intimated that he is awaiting approval from the ministry of interior in Islamabad.
— Aleema Khanum (@Aleema_KhanPK) August 1, 2025Aleema emphasised that any harm to the sons would become an international matter, underscoring their safety concerns.
Government and PTI Responses
PTI clarified earlier this week that media reports claiming Imran stated his sons would not visit or participate in protests were inaccurate. Government officials have provided mixed signals on the matter. Defence Minister Khawaja Asif questioned why the government would block their entry, while Minister of State for Interior Tallal Chaudhry mentioned that visas could be issued within 24 hours if they comply with the law.
Read: Imran Khan Stops Sons from Joining Pakistan Protests in August 2025
Minister of State for Law and Justice Barrister Aqeel Malik noted that Article 16 of the Constitution limits assembly rights to citizens, and foreigners cannot engage in political activities. He warned that visa violations could lead to cancellation. PML-N Senator Irfan Siddiqui supported their visit but stressed legal limitations.
The sons’ potential visit could bolster PTI’s campaign for Imran’s release, amid ongoing legal battles. Conflicting government statements reflect the sensitive political climate. The visa approval process will be closely watched, as it could influence PTI’s strategies and public sentiment.
