Pakistan’s political debate has once again been dominated by questions of double standards after reports circulated that former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif may be traveling to Singapore for a medical check-up. However, the reported trip has not yet been independently confirmed through a reliable official source.

But the bigger question goes beyond Nawaz Sharif.

If a former prime minister can seek medical consultation or treatment abroad whenever he considers it necessary, why does another former prime minister, Imran Khan, continue to face controversy and restrictions over access to medical care?

In recent weeks, serious concerns have been raised about Imran Khan’s health while he remains incarcerated. The Supreme Court ordered that he be taken to a private hospital for medical examination and treatment, but he was instead taken to PIMS. According to the government’s position, doctors examined him and declared him medically fit before he was returned to Adiala Jail. His family, lawyers and supporters, however, have continued to raise questions about the process.

The issue has also attracted international attention, with several former cricket captains reportedly calling on the Pakistani government to ensure that Imran Khan receives appropriate medical care.

This raises a straightforward question:

Does access to quality healthcare in Pakistan depend on political power and influence?

To be clear, there is nothing inherently wrong with a former prime minister seeking medical treatment abroad if doctors consider it necessary. Every citizen should have the right to seek the best available medical care.

The real issue is equal treatment and transparency.

If Nawaz Sharif’s reported overseas medical visit is genuine and involves public funds, the government should clearly explain the purpose, medical necessity and cost of the trip. The same principle should apply to every political leader, regardless of party or political affiliation.

Likewise, if the government says Imran Khan is medically fit, it should provide a transparent account of his medical evaluation. And if independent doctors recommend further treatment, he should be given access to appropriate medical facilities without unnecessary political or administrative obstacles.

This should not be reduced to a fight between supporters of Nawaz Sharif and Imran Khan.

It is a question of whether the same standards apply to everyone.

Ordinary Pakistanis struggle to afford basic healthcare, while political elites often have access to some of the country’s—and sometimes the world’s—best medical facilities.

That contrast naturally creates anger and distrust among the public.

The people do not need political revenge. They need equality before the law, transparency in the use of public resources and humane treatment of every citizen.

If a former prime minister needs medical care, provide it. If another former prime minister needs treatment, provide that too.

Healthcare should never become a political privilege.

Because when citizens begin to believe that one political class receives comfort and medical freedom while another faces restrictions, the damage goes far beyond politics.

It damages public trust in the entire system.