RAWALPINDI, PAKISTAN – In a significant legal blow to the founder of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), a special court on Saturday sentenced former Prime Minister Imran Khan and his wife, Bushra Bibi, to 17 years of prison each in the “Toshakhana-2” corruption case.
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The ruling was delivered by Special Judge Central Shahrukh Arjumand during a hearing held inside the high-security Adiala Jail. The sentence is divided into two categories:
- 10 years for criminal breach of trust (Section 409 of the Pakistan Penal Code).
- 7 years under the Prevention of Corruption Act.
The judge noted that the court opted for a “lenient view” rather than a maximum sentence, citing Khan’s advanced age and the status of Bushra Bibi as a female defendant.
Case Background: The Bulgari Jewelry Set
The “Toshakhana-2” case involves allegations that the former first couple illegally retained an expensive Bulgari jewelry set gifted by the Saudi Crown Prince during a May 2021 state visit.
- The Accusation: Officials claim the jewelry was assessed at a heavily undervalued price, allowing the couple to purchase it from the state treasury for a fraction of its true market value.
- The Defense: Khan and Bibi have dismissed the charges as “fabricated” and “politically motivated,” asserting that the trial is an attempt to permanently sideline the former Prime Minister from the political arena.
Growing Legal and Human Rights Concerns
This latest sentence adds to a mounting pile of legal troubles for Imran Khan, who has been in custody since August 2023. He is currently:
- Serving a 14-year sentence related to a £190 million corruption case.
- Facing a 7-year sentence (alongside his wife) regarding their marriage legality.
- Awaiting trial for multiple anti-terrorism cases linked to the May 9, 2023, protests.
The sentencing comes amid a backdrop of international pressure. Recently, the United Nations called for Khan’s immediate release from solitary confinement, citing human rights concerns. His sons, Kasim and Sulaiman, have also voiced fears for their father’s health, claiming he has been denied basic contact with his family.
Next Steps
Legal counsel for the couple has confirmed they will immediately challenge the decision in the High Court, maintaining that the trial lacked due process and was conducted with “undue haste.”
