PML-N Slams Aleema Khan Over Imran’s Sons’ Pakistan Visit Claims

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Punjab Information Minister Azma Bukhari criticized Aleema Khan, sister of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan, for inconsistent statements regarding Imran Khan’s sons visiting Pakistan, asserting they pose no threat to the government.

On August 2, 2025, Bukhari, a senior leader of the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), rebuked Aleema Khan for contradictory remarks about whether Qasim and Suleman Khan plan to visit Pakistan. Speaking to reporters, she described Aleema’s statements as confusing and lacking credibility, highlighting her shifting narrative on the brothers’ travel plans. Bukhari noted Aleema alternately cited visa issues and their mother, Jemima Goldsmith, as reasons for their absence, while later calling them patriotic Pakistanis. The minister dismissed any potential challenge from the brothers to the government’s stability, as reported by Daily Times.

The controversy arises from Aleema’s earlier claims that Qasim and Suleman, British nationals holding National Identity Cards for Overseas Pakistanis (NICOPs), would join PTI’s protest movement for their father’s release. Imran Khan has been incarcerated at Adiala Jail since August 2023 on charges including a £190 million corruption case and remains a central figure in PTI’s campaign against the PML-N-led government. Bukhari questioned the brothers’ ability to influence Pakistan’s political landscape, pointing out that even Imran Khan and thousands of PTI supporters failed to destabilize the government. She emphasized that the PML-N would not tolerate attempts to incite unrest, especially by non-residents.

Further complicating the issue, Aleema clarified on August 1 that Qasim and Suleman had applied for visas at the Pakistan High Commission in London and were awaiting approval from the Ministry of Interior, according to Dawn. However, Minister of State for Interior Tallal Chaudhry challenged her earlier assertion that the brothers held NICOPs, which would exempt them from visa requirements, raising questions about their citizenship status. Chaudhry reiterated that visas could be issued within 24 hours if legal conditions were met, but warned against participation in unlawful protests, per a Hindustan Times report.

The PML-N’s firm stance reflects its resolve to maintain stability amid PTI’s ongoing protests. Bukhari urged PTI leaders to cease spreading confusion and reinforced that the government remains unshaken by external rhetoric.