Imran Khan Biography: Politics, Education, Religion, Children, Wife, Age & Net Worth

Imran Khan is one of Pakistan’s most recognisable public figures — a World Cup–winning cricket captain who later became a polarising political leader.

His life story moves from elite schools and sporting glory to politics, premiership and a turbulent legal and political aftermath.

Early life and education

Imran Ahmad Khan Niazi was born on 5 October 1952 in Lahore, Pakistan, into a well-off Pashtun family. He attended local schools including Aitchison College, then completed his secondary education in the UK before studying at Keble College, Oxford, where he graduated in 1975.

Cricket career — the rise to legendary status

Imran Khan’s international cricket career spanned the 1970s and 1980s into the early 1990s. A fast-bowling all-rounder noted for his pace, skill and charisma, he captained Pakistan to its first and only Cricket World Cup victory in 1992.

Transition to public life and philanthropy

After retiring from cricket, Imran turned to philanthropy and public service. He founded the Shaukat Khanum Memorial Cancer Hospital & Research Centre in memory of his mother, a major charitable institution in Pakistan.

Entry into politics and rise with PTI

Imran founded the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party in 1996, positioning it as an anti-establishment movement against corruption. The party surged in popularity in the 2010s and won a plurality in the 2018 general election, enabling Imran Khan to form a government and become Prime Minister in August 2018.

Premiership (2018–2022) and policy focus

As prime minister, Khan emphasised anti-corruption rhetoric, poverty reduction programs, and economic reform. His tenure faced economic challenges, complex civil-military relations, and persistent opposition.

Removal from office: the no-confidence vote (April 2022)

On 10 April 2022, Imran Khan was removed from office by a parliamentary no-confidence vote. Shehbaz Sharif was elected prime minister the next day. The no-confidence vote marked a major turning point in Pakistan’s recent political history.

Legal battles, arrests and convictions (2023–2025)

Following his removal, Khan faced a series of legal cases and arrests. In May 2023 he was arrested during court proceedings, triggering nationwide protests. Between 2023 and 2025 he faced multiple convictions and acquittals across several high-profile cases, with appeals ongoing.

Political aftermath and PTI status

PTI remained a focal point of political mobilisation even as the government moved to restrict its activities and, at times, considered banning the party. Media coverage and legal constraints shaped PTI’s ability to campaign openly during sensitive periods.

Where things stood recently (late 2025)

As of late November 2025, reporting indicated Imran Khan was serving a lengthy sentence in detention, with his party and family raising concerns about visit restrictions and his health. The situation remained fluid, with legal appeals and political disputes ongoing.

Legacy: sport, politics and a divided nation

Imran Khan’s legacy is complex. To many he is a national hero and reformer; to others he is a polarising political figure. His life remains a study in contrasts: celebrated athlete and philanthropist on the one hand, controversial statesman on the other.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

When and where was Imran Khan born?

Imran Khan was born on 5 October 1952 in Lahore, Pakistan.

What is Imran Khan famous for besides politics?

He is famous for captaining Pakistan to the 1992 Cricket World Cup victory and for founding the Shaukat Khanum Cancer Hospital.

When was Imran Khan Prime Minister of Pakistan?

He served as prime minister from August 2018 until his removal on 10 April 2022.

Has Imran Khan been arrested or convicted?

Yes. He was arrested in May 2023 and faced multiple cases through 2023–2025, resulting in convictions, appeals and some acquittals.

Is PTI banned?

There were government moves and legal actions in 2024 to curb PTI, including talk of a ban; legal status has been contested and subject to ongoing developments.

Conclusion

Imran Khan’s transition from cricket hero to prime minister and later a jailed opposition figure is a dramatic and ongoing chapter in Pakistan’s history. For the latest developments on legal appeals, party status and political dynamics, consult current, reputable news sources and court records.