Imran Khan and Bushra Bibi Sentenced: Another Blow to PTI
In a significant setback for Imran Khan and his political party, the former Prime Minister and his wife, Bushra Bibi, were sentenced to 14 years in prison in connection with the Toshakhana reference.
Background: Allegations and Legal Proceedings
Last month, the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) filed a new reference against Imran Khan and Bushra Bibi, accusing them of retaining a jewelry set from the Saudi Crown Prince, which was allegedly undervalued. This reference is the latest in a series of legal troubles for Imran Khan, further complicating the political landscape in Pakistan.
Key Points of Conviction
- This marks Imran Khan’s third conviction, following a recent ruling in the cipher case.
- Imran Khan is now ineligible to participate in the upcoming February 8 general elections.
- During court proceedings, Imran Khan expressed skepticism about the judge’s haste in delivering the verdict.
- According to an indictment by an Islamabad accountability court, Imran Khan and his wife received a total of 108 gifts from various heads of state and foreign dignitaries during his tenure as Prime Minister.
PTI’s Reaction: Denouncing the Verdict
The PTI swiftly denounced the verdict as a miscarriage of justice, alleging unfair treatment and procedural irregularities. Party leaders voiced concerns about the judiciary’s impartiality.
“In a complete destruction of every existing law in Pakistan in two days, Imran Khan and his spouse faced yet another kangaroo trial in which no right to defense was given to both,” the PTI stated.
“Like the cipher case, this verdict has no basis to stand in any higher court. It’s shameful how a complete disregard and mockery of the law is in place,” the PTI added in a post on social media.
Imran Khan’s Sister and PTI Leader’s Statements
Imran Khan’s sister, Aleema Khan, expressed her dismay, stating, “The judicial system has buried itself today.”
PTI leader Barrister Gohar Ali Khan condemned the conviction as “not only injustice but cruelty,” criticizing the selective application of justice. He remarked, “The NAB is withdrawing cases filed against a certain party while at the same time handing out severe punishments just to make one leader happy.”
Legal Criticism and Plans for Appeal
Senior PTI lawyer Hamid Khan criticized the legal proceedings, stating, “Two convictions in two days show how all the laws and procedures of a fair trial were exploited.”
PTI Secretary General Omar Ayub Khan announced the party’s intention to appeal both the cipher and Toshakhana convictions in higher courts. He urged supporters to focus on the upcoming polls, stating, “We should harness and channel these energies for the polling day on February 8, 2024.”
Conclusion: PTI’s Disappointment and Resilience
While expressing disappointment, PTI leader Shahbaz Gill affirmed the party’s support for Imran Khan, stating, “We are hurt by what is happening but are proud of Imran’s bravery.”
Despite the setback, PTI remains resilient, vowing to contest the rulings in higher courts and rallying behind their leader ahead of the crucial electoral contest on February 8, 2024.
