PTI supporters interpreted Wilson’s statement as a sign of solidarity
A tweet by US Congressman Joe Wilson that read “Free Imran Khan” went viral shortly after he met with Pakistan’s Interior Minister.
He met with Mohsin Naqvi in Washington on January 23, 2025.
The timing of Wilson’s post, following discussions with a senior Pakistani government official, has ignited political debates.
Experts have viewed it as a reflection of former Prime Minister Imran Khan’s popularity despite his ongoing legal and political challenges.
Wilson’s remarks have added fuel to the narrative of international interest in Imran Khan’s situation.
The Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder has been at odds with the ruling party and the country’s establishment.
Khan’s imprisonment continues to polarise political discourse in Pakistan.
PTI supporters interpreted Wilson’s statement as a sign of solidarity with their leader.
This is not the first instance of an international figure advocating for Imran Khan’s release.
On December 25, 2024, Richard Grenell, the US Special Representative under President Donald Trump’s administration, publicly called for Khan’s freedom.
Grenell’s comments came amid PTI’s overt support for Trump during his US presidential campaign.
They hoped that the renewal of the ties between Trump and Khan could influence Pakistan’s political dynamics.
PTI representatives in the United States reportedly met with members of Trump’s team multiple times.
This has strengthened the perception of a connection between the two leaders.
Their political relationship goes back to 2019 when Imran Khan visited the White House and received a warm welcome from then-President Trump.
Meanwhile, interactions between Republican leaders and overseas Pakistani communities in the US have kept Imran Khan’s name relevant on the international stage.
Free Imran Khan
— Joe Wilson (@RepJoeWilson) January 23, 2025
Observers believe that the PTI’s alignment with Trump-era Republicans is for seeking diplomatic leverage and international support for their leader’s release.
Wilson’s viral post, however, has also drawn attention to the broader implications of foreign commentary on Pakistan’s domestic affairs.
While some saw it as a positive indication of global concern for justice, others criticised it.
A user commented:
“They have no interest in Pakistan’s development. They only focus on enhancing themselves.”
Another wrote: “They will never favour their regime changed Imran Khan to come back in power.”
One said: “Imran Khan will be FREE.”
For the unversed, Imran Khan was sentenced to 14 years in prison on January 17, 2025, over corruption.
He was arrested in August 2023 on charges widely regarded as politically motivated.