Imran Khan’s sister, the former Pakistani prime minister and a jailed figure, was detained ahead of next week’s protests in support of him.

The Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party said that Alima Khan was arrested on Sunday, September 20 / Shahrivar 29, in Lahore, in eastern Pakistan. Party officials described the action as an “illegal arrest.” Her son has also called for her release and return.

Based on an order issued by the Lahore Deputy Commissioner, Alima Khan was detained on charges of mobilizing Imran Khan’s supporters “through social media and public gatherings,” and is expected to remain in detention for 30 days.

Alima Khan is a outspoken critic of her brother’s detention and regularly speaks with his supporters and the media.

Shahroz Khan, her son, wrote on the X social network: “We ask the government to immediately announce where she is being held and guarantee her safety and her healthy return.”

Many have linked Alima Khan’s arrest to nationwide protests scheduled for September 27. During the event, protesters are expected to march toward Islamabad, Pakistan’s capital. 📷FAROOQ NAEEM/AFP