Islamabad: Special Court Verdict
The special court issued a comprehensive judgment on the cypher case on Thursday, decisively establishing that former Prime Minister Imran Khan, along with the then Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi, “compromised Pakistan’s cypher communications system, significantly impacting the nation’s international reputation, diplomats, and diplomatic reporting practices.”
Sentencing of Imran and Qureshi
Both prominent leaders of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party received their sentences two days ago.
Judge Abul Hasnat Zulqarnain authored the judgment, asserting that the actions of the accused led to “considerable economic and political repercussions, weakening Pakistan’s economy and posing threats to national security.”
Verdict Details
The court found Imran and Qureshi guilty under various sections of the Official Secrets Act (OSA) and the Pakistan Penal Code (PPC). Imran received a 10-year rigorous imprisonment term under section 5(3)(a) of OSA, two years under section 5(1)(c) of OSA with a fine of Rs1 million, and an additional two years under section 5(1)(d) of OSA with an extra fine of Rs1 million. Both individuals were also convicted under section 5(3)(a) of OSA read with section 34 PPC, each receiving a 10-year rigorous imprisonment term. Additionally, the court found Qureshi guilty under section 9 read with section 5(3)(a) of OSA. The convicts received the benefit of section 382-B CrPC, with all sentences running concurrently.
Evidence Presented
The court based its findings on tangible evidence, describing the case as “clear-cut”, supported by the receipt of cypher messages along with the chain of custody and cypher movement registers. It emphasized the adverse effects of cypher information disclosure, backed by statements from witnesses and technical experts.
Actions of the Accused
The judgment highlighted the “intentional actions” of the accused, including the unauthorized retention of cypher, negligent handling of telegrams, and the advantage given to foreign powers. Furthermore, it pointed out Imran’s public disclosure of confidential information at the behest of Qureshi.
Judicial Remarks
The judgment stressed the immense responsibility of the prime minister in handling confidential information responsibly, noting, “Regrettably, accused Imran Ahmed Khan Niazi, besides violating the Official Secrets Act, 1923, has also breached his oath.”
Conduct During Proceedings
The court expressed disappointment at the conduct of the accused during the proceedings, noting their “efforts to prolong the trial through legal maneuvers.” It criticized their refusal to participate in cross-examination, failure to sign court documents, and overall evasive behavior as unethical and detrimental to the legal process.
Conclusion and Reflection
In conclusion, the court found the former prime minister and former foreign minister guilty of grave offenses, stressing the necessity for responsible handling of confidential information by high-ranking officials and condemning their behavior during the legal proceedings.
