Imran Khan Likely to Remain in Jail Until 2026 or Beyond if Confrontational Policy Continues: Sources

ISLAMABAD: Former Prime Minister **Imran Khan** is unlikely to be released from prison anytime soon unless a *“miracle, political deal, or unexpected judicial relief”* occurs, according to well-placed sources. Reports suggest that Khan could remain behind bars throughout **2026**, and possibly beyond.

Sources within the **Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI)** revealed that while some hardline members continue to push for confrontation, moderate party leaders are increasingly concerned about Khan’s prolonged incarceration. They believe that as long as confrontation with state institutions persists, *“Imran Khan’s release will remain impossible.”*

Insiders say the former premier’s legal troubles are far from over due to the **complex nature of ongoing cases** involving him and his wife, **Bushra Bibi**. The appeals against their **14-year prison sentences in the Al-Qadir Trust case** have yet to be scheduled for hearing by the **Islamabad High Court (IHC)**.

Under the court’s **“Fixation Policy”**, cases are heard in the order they were filed, with older and more serious cases — such as death penalties and life imprisonments — receiving priority, in line with directives from the **National Judicial Policy Making Committee (NJPMC)**.

Imran Khan and Bushra Bibi’s appeal was filed on **January 31, 2024**, but has not yet been taken up for hearing. Given the **existing judicial backlog**, sources say there is *“virtually no chance”* the case will be heard this year.

Adding to their legal woes, the **Toshakhana-II case** is in its final stages, and if another conviction is handed down, Khan and his wife may face further imprisonment even before their current appeals are heard.

Multiple **May 9 riot-related cases** are also still under trial. Legal experts within PTI acknowledge that the **prosecution has enough legal maneuvers** to prolong these proceedings, delaying Khan’s release further — even if he secures bail or acquittal in some cases.

Sources estimate that, even under the best circumstances, it would take **considerable time** for the High Court to resolve all major cases. Unless there is a **major political deal or extraordinary judicial intervention**, Imran Khan’s imprisonment could easily **extend into 2026 or beyond**.