Along with his extended family, Cha­u­dhry Parvez Elahi was once regarded as one of those politicians who rarely stray too far from the establishment’s ‘right’ side.

It wasn’t until recently that he made the mistake of trying to break free from that centre of gravity of all political power. It has cost him dearly and landed him in no man’s land.

Despite his impressive CV — he has served twice as chief minister and speaker of the Punjab Assembly, once as deputy prime minister, has held federal and provincial minister-ships and is the current president of the PTI — Mr Elahi is currently languishing in jail and the chances of him walking free anytime soon seem quite slim.

His family — once regarded as a paragon of unity in Pakistan’s politics — is split down the middle and fighting itself. His son is encamped abroad, away from the establishment’s grasp.

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