Imran Khan’s Sons Must Stay Away from Pakistani Politics A Matter of Risk, Narrative, and Democratic Clarity

Imran Khan’s Sons Must Stay Away from Pakistani Politics A Matter of Risk, Narrative, and Democratic Clarity

Imran Khan remains one of Pakistan’s most popular and impactful leaders in recent history. Despite political setbacks, imprisonment, and internal challenges, he has successfully built Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) into one of the country’s three largest political forces — a remarkable achievement in a political landscape long dominated by a two-party system. His leadership inspired millions to dream of justice, transparency, and national dignity.

However, recent news that his sons, Sulaiman Isa Khan and Qasim Khan, may be visiting Pakistan or taking interest in public matters has sparked serious concerns — not just for their personal safety, but for the ideological clarity, strategic vision, and public perception of the very democratic movement Khan built.

As someone who passionately believes in strengthening democracy in Pakistan and who advocates for a third political force that breaks the monopoly of dynastic and elitist politics, I write these words with sincerity and concern — not to criticize, but to counsel.

1. Security Concerns in an Unstable Political Climate

Pakistan’s current environment is highly charged and unstable. Political leaders are under threat, civil liberties are fragile, and media is polarized. Imran Khan himself has suffered physical attacks and endured imprisonment. His sons — raised in the UK, unfamiliar with local political tensions — are vulnerable to both physical threats and media exploitation.

Their appearance in the public eye would not bring any strategic gain, but would invite unnecessary risk — for themselves, their father, and the party.

2. The Return of Dangerous Narratives

Throughout his political career, Khan has been haunted by an unfair yet persistent propaganda campaign: that his marriage to Jemima Goldsmith, a British woman of Jewish heritage, was a gateway to foreign, even Zionist, influence in Pakistan.

Although Jemima has always shown respect for Islam and Pakistan, and Khan has consistently defended her honor, the conspiracy theories remain alive in certain ideological circles.

If Khan’s sons, who are half-British and visibly close to their mother, appear in Pakistani politics, opponents may revive this narrative with full force. They will say:

“Through his sons and ex-wife, Imran Khan wants to fulfill a foreign agenda — even recognition of Israel!”

This would severely damage the trust of conservative supporters, religious groups, and nationalist thinkers — even though such claims are untrue and unfair.

3. Contradiction of Khan’s Anti-Dynastic Principles

Khan’s powerful narrative has always been his stance against morrusi siyasat (dynastic politics). He has long criticized the Bhuttos and Sharifs for turning political parties into family businesses.

In 2011, he said:

“I am against political inheritance. The people of Pakistan should choose leaders based on merit, not bloodline.”

If his sons are now brought forward in any visible way, it destroys this ideological distinction. It opens the door for critics to accuse Khan of hypocrisy and damages PTI’s unique political identity.

4. Public Perception Matters More Than Intentions

Khan’s strength came from his movement, not his family. Introducing his sons into the political narrative will:

• Confuse and divide his support base

• Allow media and political opponents to label PTI as “just another family party”

• Weaken the symbolic power of the leader who rose without family political legacy

Imran Khan should protect the purity of his movement — and that means keeping his family above politics.

5. Alternative Role for the Sons of Khan

Khan’s sons can still serve Pakistan in other meaningful ways:

• Humanitarian work in health, water, or education

• International advocacy for Pakistan

• Promoting charitable causes in their father’s name

But entering Pakistani political affairs is not just risky, it is unnecessary and counterproductive.

6. Democracy Needs a Third Force — Not a Family Dynasty

As a long-time believer in democracy, I have always maintained that the two-party system in Pakistan has failed the people. It has created polarization, institutional paralysis, and elite capture. A third democratic force, like PTI, rooted in meritocracy and transparency, is essential to balance the system.

But if PTI also falls into dynastic patterns, it will:

• Lose its moral high ground

• Fail to fulfill the dream of democratic reform

• Disappoint millions who supported Khan for being different

7. Conclusion: For the Sake of Pakistan’s Democracy and Khan’s Legacy

Imran Khan has already made history. His political journey has been full of sacrifice, idealism, and courage. But now is the time for wisdom over emotion, principle over pressure, and long-term vision over short-term reactions.

Let us not hand over this sacred movement to confusion, conspiracy, and contradiction.

As a concerned Pakistani, I urge Khan Sahib to protect his legacy by ensuring that his children remain safe, respected, and above the political battlefield. Let PTI remain the party of ideals, not inheritance.

Let us remember: We are not against Khan — we are with the idea that Pakistan deserves clean, credible, and democratic leadership.

By:

Syed Ali Raza Shah Naqvi Bukhari

Founder & Chairman, Tehreek Istehkam Pakistan

Author of “Social Democratic System,” “Law of God,” and “Multiculturalism”

Advocate of Third-Party Democracy and People’s Welfare