In a new development surrounding the family of jailed former prime minister Imran Khan, his sister Aleema Khan confirmed on Saturday that Khan’s sons, Sulaiman Khan and Kasim Khan, have formally applied for their National Identity Cards for Overseas Pakistanis (NICOP) and visas to visit Pakistan.

Speaking to the media, Aleema stated, “The PTI founder’s sons have applied for NICOP and visa.” She clarified that while they had previously held NICOPs, those documents were lost and are now being re-applied for.

This announcement comes a day after State Minister Talal Chaudhry questioned Aleema’s earlier claims regarding the identity status of Sulaiman and Kasim, raising doubts about whether the two possessed NICOPs in the first place. The issue has drawn considerable attention, particularly as speculation grows over a possible visit by the two brothers to meet their father.

Read More: Imran Khan’s sons apply for Pakistan visas, await interior ministry approval

Imran Khan, the 71-year-old Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder, has been incarcerated since August 2023 on multiple charges including corruption and terrorism — following his removal from office in April 2022 through a parliamentary no-confidence vote.

Reports had previously suggested that Sulaiman and Kasim were barred from visiting Pakistan or engaging in political activity. However, PTI has since dismissed such claims, stating unequivocally that both sons, now aged 28 and 26, are expected to visit their father without restriction.

Aleema further revealed that although the sons’ application tracking numbers are available, embassy officials have denied receiving any official submission. “A friend contacted the ambassador and was told that permission is needed from the Ministry of Interior. I said, then take it from [Interior Minister] Mohsin Naqvi,” she added.

Also Read: Over 100 PTI leaders sentenced to 10 years in May 9 terrorism case

Interestingly, conflicting reports have surfaced about which department is responsible for the visa process. “Yesterday, I heard the Ministry of Foreign Affairs would be issuing the visas instead of the Ministry of Interior,” Aleema said, expressing frustration over the lack of communication from embassy officials.

Aleema also clarified that the timing of her nephews’ visit has no connection to the PTI’s upcoming protest movement, scheduled to reach its peak on August 5. “This movement belongs to the people,” she said, distancing the family visit from any political agenda.