News

Imran Khan Sentenced to 14 Years, Wife to 7 Years in High-Profile Corruption Case

A Pakistani court has sentenced former Prime Minister Imran Khan to 14 years in prison and his wife, Bushra Bibi, to seven years following their conviction on corruption charges related to a controversial land deal. The verdict, confirmed by officials and Khan’s lawyer, marks another major setback for the embattled politician.

The case revolves around allegations that Khan and his wife accepted a land gift from real estate tycoon Malik Riaz in exchange for laundered money during Khan’s tenure as prime minister. Prosecutors allege that Riaz used part of £190 million ($240 million), which was returned to Pakistan by British authorities in 2022, to pay fines imposed on him in a separate case. These funds, intended for the national treasury, were allegedly diverted.

Khan, who has been incarcerated since 2023 on multiple charges, dismissed the allegations as politically motivated. “This is a bogus case, and we will approach an appeals court against this decision,” stated Omar Ayub Khan, a senior leader of Khan’s Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party. Khan’s lawyer, Faisal Chaudhry, confirmed plans to challenge the ruling in higher courts, reiterating Khan’s claim of innocence.

The verdict sparked demonstrations from Khan’s supporters. PTI lawmakers rallied outside the parliament in Islamabad, accusing the government of targeting Khan to prevent his political resurgence. Outside Adiala Prison in Rawalpindi, crowds chanted slogans demanding Khan’s release.

Since being ousted in a no-confidence vote in April 2022, Khan has faced a series of legal challenges. He has been convicted in three cases, including corruption, revealing state secrets, and violating marriage laws, with sentences of 10, 14, and seven years, respectively. According to Pakistani law, the longest sentence is applied when multiple prison terms overlap.

Khan’s political future remains uncertain as his party continues to denounce the verdict as part of a broader campaign to suppress opposition voices.

Kindly share this story:
Kindly share this story:
Share on whatsapp
Share on facebook
Share on twitter
Share on linkedin
Share on telegram
Share on facebook
Top News

Related Articles