Pakistani Ex-PM Imran Khan Faces Third Conviction as Graft Allegations Intensify
In a significant blow to the embattled former Prime Minister of Pakistan, Imran Khan, and his wife Bushra Khan, an anti-graft court has sentenced both to 14 years in jail on charges related to the illegal sale of state gifts. The verdict, which includes a 10-year disqualification from holding public office, was announced on Wednesday, marking the third conviction for Imran Khan in recent months.
Legal Setback Amid Election Turmoil:
The verdict comes at a crucial time, just a week before national elections, adding to the turmoil surrounding Imran Khan’s political future. The Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), Khan’s political party, decried the decision, labeling it as another setback in the country’s judicial system history.
Charges and Allegations:
Imran Khan and Bushra Khan face charges of illegally selling gifts worth more than 140 million rupees ($501,000) that were in state possession during Khan’s premiership from 2018 to 2022. The gifts, including perfumes, diamond jewelry, dinner sets, and high-value watches, were allegedly sold in Dubai by Khan’s aides. The couple had been charged with a similar offense earlier, leading to a three-year prison sentence for Khan in August. However, that sentence had been suspended on appeal.
Denials and Challenges:
Imran Khan’s media team vehemently denied the charges, criticizing the judicial process and alleging a predetermined decision. They stated that no cross-questioning was allowed, and the decision seemed rushed. The team vowed to challenge what they termed a “ridiculous decision.”
Political Ramifications:
Imran Khan, who was already banned from holding public office for five years due to a previous conviction, now faces further disqualification until the age of 81. The sentencing of his wife, Bushra Khan, is seen by some as an attempt to exert additional pressure on the former prime minister. Bushra Bibi, as she is commonly known, has been deemed unrelated to the case by PTI’s acting chairman and lawyer Gohar Ali Khan.
Ongoing Legal Battles:
These legal setbacks pose challenges for Imran Khan’s political career, particularly as he navigates a contentious election season. While Khan has been found guilty in multiple cases, the legal landscape continues to evolve, and the political repercussions remain uncertain.
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