Islamabad, Pakistan – In a significant development, former Prime Minister Imran Khan and his wife, Bushra Bibi, have been sentenced to prison in a high-profile corruption case. Khan received a 14-year sentence, while Bibi was sentenced to seven years. The case revolves around the misuse of authority and corruption linked to the Al-Qadir University Project Trust.
The verdict, delivered by an accountability court operating from Adiala Jail in Rawalpindi, has sparked controversy and political tension in Pakistan. Khan’s lawyer and his party, PTI, have condemned the decision as politically motivated, asserting that the charges lack solid evidence and are part of a broader campaign against Khan.
This marks the fourth major case in which Khan has been convicted, with previous convictions related to selling state gifts, leaking state secrets, and unlawful marriage. Despite these setbacks, Khan remains a prominent figure in Pakistani politics, with numerous cases still pending against him.
The case has also highlighted ongoing negotiations between PTI and the current government, with concerns that the conviction might derail talks aimed at resolving political disputes. Political analysts warn that the verdict could lead to increased tensions and a more aggressive stance from PTI supporters.
The Al-Qadir Trust case has been closely watched, with extensive documentation and evidence presented during the proceedings. The National Accountability Bureau (NAB) alleged that Khan, during his tenure as prime minister, made a quid pro quo deal with property tycoon Malik Riaz, enabling him to launder significant sums of money, causing substantial losses to the national treasury.
As the political landscape in Pakistan continues to evolve, the impact of this verdict on Khan’s political future and the broader political climate remains to be seen.