An animated exchange took place at the entrance to Adiala prison between lawyers representing Pakistan Tehreek-E-insaf (PTI) and Aleema Khan, the sister of the founder of PTI, Imran Khan, following a meeting between her and other family members with the former imprisoned Prime Minister.
According to information, the confrontation occurred while the Khan and the lawyers left prison after their meeting with Imran Khan.
At the front door, Aleema Khan confronted the heads of lawyer, accusing them of having poorly managed the situation and of questioning their motivations.
She firmly told lawyers that only those who have specific responsibilities should be allowed to meet her brother, Imran Khan, inside the prison.
“No lawyer without responsibility will be authorized inside,” she said. “What kind of drama are you all playing? Everyone comes to prison just to meet him. Our brother is inside, we love him and we would die for him.”
Aleema Khan also clearly indicated that no lawyer was authorized to deposit additional petitions before the court on their behalf unless it is a person with the appropriate authority. “Only Salman Akram and Salman Safdar are allowed to deposit petitions,” she said.
In a new demonstration of frustration, she questioned the lawyers about their efforts to ensure the access of her brother to her children and the necessary articles. “My brother is not allowed to speak with his children and his books do not reach him,” she said. “Naeem Punjota, you are the focal point of Bushra Bibi, who do you meet?”
Naeem Punjota replied that he had not met anyone and said he could only share his interactions as indicated. Aleema Khan, visibly upset, confronted her more, saying: “Do not be rude with me.” Punjota replied, declaring: “I am not rude. We crossed the prisons and we faced accusations ourselves.” Aleema Khan, in response, told him to remain silent and accused him of speaking disrespectfully.
While tensions intensified, the lawyers present intervened and removed Naeem Punjota aside. Aleema Khan, without retreating, continued to question the lawyers on the legal compensation they had obtained in Imran Khan.