The Accountability Court in Islamabad has sentenced Imran Khan, the founder of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) and former Prime Minister, to 14 years in prison and imposed a fine of Rs1 million after finding him guilty in the £190 million reference case. His wife, Bushra Bibi, was also convicted, receiving a seven-year prison sentence and a Rs500,000 fine. Additionally, the court ordered the confiscation of land belonging to Al-Qadir University, transferring it to the government's control.
The verdict was delivered at Adiala Jail by Accountability Court Judge Nasir Javed Rana, who stated that Imran Khan was found guilty under Section 10A of the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) Ordinance 1999. The court determined that the PTI founder was involved in corruption, while Bushra Bibi was convicted for aiding and abetting his crimes.
The judgement highlighted that the defence lawyers did not effectively challenge the prosecution's evidence, which was backed by strong and coherent documentary testimony. Despite thorough cross-examinations of witnesses, the court found the prosecution’s case to be consistent and reliable.
The court acknowledged some minor contradictions, which are common in white-collar crime cases, but ruled that these did not weaken the overall evidence. The defence’s documentary evidence was considered outdated, and the legal references presented by the defence counsel were deemed irrelevant to the facts of the case.
The court rejected the acquittal applications filed by Imran Khan and Bushra Bibi, instructing that copies of the verdict be provided to the accused. The judgement also permitted the accused to appeal the decision in a higher court.
Arrest Warrants and Absconding Accused
Bushra Bibi was taken into custody from Adiala Jail following the issuance of her sentence implementation warrant. The reference case also involves absconding suspects, including Malik Riaz, Ali Riaz, Farhat Shehzadi, Shehzad Akbar, Zulfi Bukhari, and Zia-ul-Mustafa Naseem. Permanent arrest warrants have been issued for these individuals. The trial, which wrapped up on December 18, 2024, experienced several delays before the final verdict was delivered on January 17, 2025.
PTI Leadership Condemns Verdict
The leadership of PTI has strongly condemned the court’s ruling, labeling it as politically motivated. Barrister Gohar, who represents PTI, remarked, "This verdict is an embarrassment and a continuation of controversial decisions. Despite the injustice, Imran Khan and Bushra Bibi remain resilient." Gohar pointed out that Bushra Bibi's sentencing was discriminatory and part of a political vendetta. "The founder has committed no crime and has not benefitted in any way," he asserted, announcing intentions to appeal the decision in the High Court.
Confidence in Exoneration
PTI leaders expressed their belief that the sentences would be overturned, referencing Imran Khan’s 27-year fight for justice. "The founder will never compromise or give up. Justice will prevail, and he will be released with dignity," Gohar stated. Imran Khan, while discussing ongoing negotiations, mentioned that talks would continue but cautioned that they would cease if no progress was made within seven days. The PTI leadership remains steadfast in their conviction that the case exemplifies political revenge, pledging to explore all legal options to contest the verdict and restore justice.