Former Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan Found Dead: Nation in Shock, Investigation Underway
By Khabri | Published on May 10, 2025
Islamabad — In a tragic and shocking development, former Prime Minister of Pakistan, Imran Khan, was found dead early Saturday morning in his prison cell in Adiala Jail, Rawalpindi. The news has sent shockwaves across the nation and the international community, triggering mourning, protests, and calls for an independent investigation.
Authorities confirmed that the 72-year-old Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leader was discovered unresponsive at approximately 6:15 AM local time during a routine security check. Medical staff on site declared him dead on arrival.
credit: File Photo
A Nation in Mourning
Khan’s death has plunged Pakistan into a state of political and social turmoil. The former cricketer-turned-politician had remained a dominant figure in the country’s turbulent political landscape, even after being ousted from power in a controversial no-confidence vote in April 2022 and subsequently imprisoned in 2023 on multiple charges, many of which he and his supporters denounced as politically motivated.
Tens of thousands of supporters gathered outside PTI headquarters in Lahore, chanting slogans like “Khan Sahab Amar Rahe!” (Long live Khan Sahib!) and calling for nationwide civil disobedience.
PTI spokesperson Shireen Mazari told reporters, “This is not a natural death. This is murder in custody. The state is responsible, and the people will not rest until justice is served.”
Official Statements and Speculation
The Ministry of Interior released a brief statement confirming the death and stating that an “independent judicial commission” would be formed to determine the cause.
“The Government of Pakistan expresses deep sorrow over the untimely passing of former Prime Minister Imran Khan. A transparent investigation will be carried out, and the findings will be made public,” said Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi.
While official sources claim there were no signs of foul play or external injury, unverified reports from inside the prison allege signs of bruising and a possible struggle.
Social media exploded with speculation, with #ImranKhanShaheed and #RegimeChangeConspiracy trending on X (formerly Twitter) within minutes of the news breaking.
International Reaction
The news sparked an immediate response from leaders across the globe. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi offered condolences, stating, “We extend our sympathies to the people of Pakistan. Regardless of politics, Imran Khan was a significant figure in South Asian history.”
U.S. President Donald Trump tweeted:
“Very sad to hear about Imran Khan. A strong leader and an honest man. The world has lost a bold voice for truth.”
The United Nations and several European Union leaders urged calm and encouraged Pakistan to ensure a peaceful, lawful investigation and prevent unrest.
A Controversial Figure, Even in Death
Imran Khan’s life was never without controversy. A World Cup-winning cricket captain, Oxford-educated elite, and philanthropist who built the Shaukat Khanum Cancer Hospital, Khan pivoted to politics in the late 1990s. After years on the political fringes, his populist message, anti-corruption stance, and appeal to Pakistan’s youth eventually won him power in 2018.
But his tenure was marred by an economic crisis, civil-military tensions, and accusations of authoritarianism. After being removed from office, Khan became a polarizing but powerful opposition leader, rallying massive crowds and claiming that a foreign conspiracy—allegedly involving the United States and elements within Pakistan’s military—was responsible for his downfall.
His arrest and incarceration last year led to widespread protests, violent crackdowns, and the eventual banning of PTI from participating in the 2024 general elections.
Fallout and National Security Concerns
Security has been ramped up nationwide. The Pakistan Army has been deployed in major cities including Islamabad, Karachi, Peshawar, and Lahore. Mobile networks were temporarily shut down to curb the spread of “misinformation” and prevent organized mass mobilizations.
In Lahore, clashes between police and PTI supporters were reported outside Khan’s residence in Zaman Park, which has now become a symbolic location for his followers.
Sources within the Pakistani intelligence community have confirmed that intelligence-sharing operations with foreign allies have been put on hold due to concerns over civil unrest spiraling out of control.
Conspiracy Theories and Questions Unanswered
Many now fear that Khan’s death could destabilize Pakistan’s already fragile democracy.
Political analyst and author Ayesha Jalal said in an interview, “This could become Pakistan’s Archduke Ferdinand moment. The combination of unresolved political grievances, youth radicalization, and eroded trust in institutions makes this a very volatile situation.”
Some supporters claim Khan was poised to reveal explosive information related to military corruption and foreign deals before his next court appearance. Others believe he was targeted due to his growing popularity and refusal to accept a backseat political role.
The Legacy of Imran Khan
Love him or hate him, Imran Khan leaves behind a complex legacy. To millions, he was a nationalist hero who challenged the status quo, brought the elite under scrutiny, and gave Pakistan’s youth a voice. To critics, he was a demagogue who undermined institutions and incited division.
Yet, few can deny that Khan reshaped Pakistan’s political discourse. He championed causes others feared to touch—Kashmir, media independence, and military transparency. Even in prison, his voice echoed louder than many free leaders.
What Happens Now?
With the country in mourning and the future uncertain, eyes turn to the military, the judiciary, and civil society to steer Pakistan through this dark chapter. Whether the government can maintain stability—or if Khan’s death becomes the spark for a revolution—remains to be seen.
For now, the people of Pakistan await answers, accountability, and, perhaps most of all, a return to hope.