Unlock That Cell And Set Imran Khan Free: Boris Johnson Calls For Former Pakistan PM’s Release
Arslan Farid
Published September 19, 2026 | 12:55 AM
Former British prime minister Boris Johnson has called for the immediate release of Pakistan’s jailed former premier Imran Khan, making a series of strong allegations about his imprisonment and claiming that Pakistan’s military leadership fears his enduring political popularity.
In an article for the Daily Mail, accompanied by a video message, Johnson raised concerns over Khan’s health, prison conditions, and legal cases while urging Britain to use its influence to press for his release. He concluded with a direct appeal:
“Unlock that cell and set Imran Khan free.”
The former British prime minister painted a grim picture of Khan’s incarceration, claiming that the 73-year-old former premier is being held in a small, damp and insect-infested cell with no window. He alleged prolonged periods of solitary confinement and restrictions on exercise, books, newspapers, and family visits.
Johnson also raised concerns about Khan’s health, citing claims of delayed and inadequate medical treatment causing severe vision loss in his right eye.
He argued that Khan’s continued imprisonment was not primarily about corruption but, rather, about keeping a popular political figure out of public life. He accused Pakistan’s military leadership of seeking to remove Khan after he attempted to exercise constitutional authority while in office.
Johnson attributed Khan’s detention to his fearlessness in standing up to the military:
“They are afraid of Imran Khan.”
He pointed to Khan’s popularity as a cricketer and politician, referencing his role in leading Pakistan to victory in the 1992 Cricket World Cup. Johnson suggested that Pakistan’s generals feared millions of supporters could propel Khan to a major electoral win if he were released.
Despite his strong defence of Khan, Johnson acknowledged political differences with him. However, he questioned whether Khan’s incarceration could be justified after more than three years.