Court Reserves Verdict on Imran Khan, Bushra Bibi’s Acquittal Pleas in New Toshakhana Case
The court is expected to announce its decision on November 12, 2024.
A special court of the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) on Friday reserved its verdict regarding the acquittal pleas of Imran Khan, the founder of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), and his wife, Bushra Bibi, in a new Toshakhana case.
The hearing took place at a makeshift court in Rawalpindi’s Adiala Jail, presided over by Special Judge Central Shahrukh Arjumand. Both Khan and Bibi are accused of misusing their power to acquire state gifts improperly.
The court is expected to announce its decision on November 12, 2024.
This case is part of broader legal challenges faced by Khan, who has been embroiled in various allegations since his ousting from office. The Toshakhana case specifically pertains to accusations related to the acquisition of state gifts during his tenure as prime minister.
The case against former Prime Minister Imran Khan and his wife, Bushra Bibi, regarding the Toshakhana has progressed to a critical stage. Initially heard by an accountability court, the case was transferred to the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) following a Supreme Court ruling that reinstated amendments to anti-corruption laws.
During a recent hearing, lawyers for Imran Khan and Bushra Bibi concluded their arguments on their acquittal pleas, prompting the court to reserve its verdict, which is set to be announced on November 12, 2024. The court also deferred the indictment of the couple in this case, where they are accused of purchasing a valuable jewellery set at an undervalued price. This set, which includes a ring, bracelet, necklace, and earrings, was gifted to Bushra Bibi during a visit to Saudi Arabia in May 2021.
The National Accountability Bureau (NAB) alleged that the jewellery was not deposited in Toshakhana and that its estimated value was significantly higher than what was reported. Specifically, the total estimated price of the jewellery set was Rs70.56 million, leading to an approximate loss of Rs30.28 million to the national exchequer due to undervaluation.
The case continues to unfold amid broader legal challenges faced by Khan and his party, PTI, as they navigate multiple allegations since his ousting from office.
