Former Prime Minister of Pakistan
Imran Khan
He led Pakistan to a World Cup, built a cancer hospital from nothing, and became Prime Minister. His life has never followed a straight line.
1971–92
International Cricket Career
1992
World Cup Victory
3
Cancer Hospitals Founded
22nd
Prime Minister of Pakistan
The Journey
Key milestones that shaped a leader
Born in Lahore
Imran Ahmed Khan Niazi was born on 5 October 1952 into a Pashtun family with deep cricketing roots.
International Debut
Made his Test debut against England at Edgbaston. Raw and wicketless, the start of a 21-year career.
Oxford University
Graduated from Keble College, Oxford with a degree in Philosophy, Politics and Economics. Captained Oxford's cricket team.
Appointed Captain
Took over as Pakistan cricket captain, leading a transformation in the team's identity and performance.
World Cup Victory
Led Pakistan to its first and only 50-over World Cup title. The "cornered tigers" speech became legendary.
Shaukat Khanum Hospital
Opened Pakistan's first dedicated cancer hospital in Lahore, fulfilling a promise made to his dying mother.
Founded PTI
Launched Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (Movement for Justice), entering politics with an anti-corruption platform.
Namal University
Founded Namal University in Mianwali, bringing STEM education to one of Pakistan's poorest districts.
Elected Prime Minister
Sworn in as the 22nd Prime Minister after PTI won the most votes in Pakistani electoral history.
Ousted via No-Confidence
Removed through a no-confidence vote, the first PM in Pakistan's history to be ousted this way.
Imprisoned
Arrested in August 2023 and held at Adiala Jail. Faces over 150 cases described as politically motivated.
Still Incarcerated
Nearly three years in prison. Health deteriorating, family access denied, but PTI remains Pakistan's most popular party.
Government Achievements
What his premiership delivered for Pakistan
Sehat Sahulat
Universal health insurance covering 35.8 million families with up to 1M rupees per year.
4.4M hospital visits covered
10 Billion Tree Tsunami
The largest reforestation program in Pakistan's history, creating 84,609 green jobs during COVID.
430M trees planted by 2021
Ehsaas Program
Largest social safety net in Pakistan's history, providing cash transfers and emergency relief.
150B rupees distributed during COVID
Kartarpur Corridor
Visa-free access for Indian Sikh pilgrims to Gurdwara Darbar Sahib, a rare diplomatic achievement.
Opened November 2019