Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister, Azam Khan, announced plans to form a “release force” comprising hundreds of thousands of individuals aimed at securing the release of PTI founder Imran Khan from prison. This initiative, championed by Khan’s loyalist, is envisioned as a “street movement” to challenge Khan’s incarceration. The former Prime Minister has been imprisoned since August 2023, facing convictions in cases he alleges are politically motivated following his ouster from power.

Azam Khan stated that the proposed force would unite various party factions, including lawyers and youth wings, urging young supporters to be ready to mobilize at Khan’s call. He drew parallels to existing party structures like relief forces and task forces, emphasizing the need for organized action.

The Chief Minister also cast doubt on the authenticity of medical reports from Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS) concerning Khan’s eye condition, suggesting they might be fabricated. He expressed distrust in the ruling alliance, asserting that those involved in alleged “mandate stealing” on February 8 cannot be considered allies.

The “Imran Khan Release Force” was slated for formal registration, with members expected to take an oath in Peshawar after Eid ul Fitr, vowing to pursue a peaceful struggle. This announcement emerged amidst growing concern over Imran Khan’s health, particularly a diagnosis of central retinal vein occlusion (CRVO) affecting his right eye, leaving him with limited vision.

However, the proposal has reportedly encountered internal divisions within PTI. PTI Information Secretary Sheikh Waqas Akram expressed surprise at the announcement, suggesting it was a proposal that would require deliberation within the party’s Political Committee. Conversely, Shafi Ullah Jan, an aide to the KP CM, asserted that the announcement itself necessitates the force’s establishment, regardless of further endorsement.

Further reports indicate that PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan has intervened to halt the formation of the “Imran Khan Release Force.” Party sources suggest that Barrister Gohar warned the KP CM that creating a “force” with members taking oaths for political objectives could be deemed unconstitutional and potentially viewed as militant. The PTI chairman is reportedly seeking broader political consensus against the move within the PTI and its allied opposition parties.