Despite being behind bars, former Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan has been nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize for the second time. The Pakistan World Alliance (PWA), affiliated with the Norwegian political party Partiet Centrum, confirmed his nomination for his efforts in human rights and democracy in Pakistan.
Partiet Centrum stated on X, “We are pleased to announce on behalf of Partiet Centrum that in alliance with anyone with the right to nominate, former Prime Minister of Pakistan Imran Khan has been nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize.”
This isn't Khan’s first brush with Nobel recognition. In 2019, he was nominated for his role in easing tensions with India, particularly after the release of Indian Air Force pilot Abhinandan Varthaman following the Balakot airstrike incident. However, Khan had downplayed his eligibility, stating that the true recipient should be the one who resolves the Kashmir dispute peacefully.
Since mid-2023, Imran Khan has been imprisoned at Adiala Jail in Rawalpindi, following multiple convictions. In January 2024, he was sentenced to 14 years in prison on corruption charges, while other cases against him, including those related to government gifts, leaked secrets, and an alleged illegal marriage, have been overturned or suspended.
His party, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), remains at odds with the Pakistani government, with political tensions running high since the controversial general elections in February 2024.
The Norwegian Nobel Committee receives countless nominations annually, and the selection process spans over eight months. While his nomination is significant, it remains to be seen whether Imran Khan, a leader caught between political turmoil and international recognition, will join the ranks of Nobel laureates.
