Non-Bailable Arrest Warrant Issued
The Accountability Court in Islamabad has issued a non-bailable arrest warrant for Bushra Bibi, the wife of former Prime Minister and PTI founder Imran Khan, in connection with the £190 million corruption case. Law enforcement has been directed to arrest and present her in court on November 26.
Court Hearing Details
The decision was made during a hearing held at Adiala Jail under Judge Nasir Javed Rana. Bushra Bibi, citing medical reasons, requested exemption from attendance, but the court rejected her plea. The prosecution argued that the repeated absences, including her failure to appear at the last eight hearings, were delaying the case.
Questions Over Medical Reports
The prosecution also raised concerns about inconsistencies in her medical documentation, highlighting that the medical report was issued from a hospital in Peshawar, while the notary certification was completed in Islamabad.
Bail Cancellation and Adjournment
Due to her continued absence, the court canceled her bail and adjourned the hearing to November 26, instructing law enforcement to ensure her presence.
Witness List Controversy
Defence lawyers submitted a list of 16 witnesses, including prominent figures such as the Vice Chancellor of Government College University Lahore and former officials from the Cabinet Division and Higher Education Commission (HEC).
Prosecution’s Objections
The National Accountability Bureau (NAB) lawyers argued that submitting the witness list at this stage appeared to be a delaying tactic. While NAB did not oppose the summoning of judicial witnesses, it raised concerns about the timing of the request.
Reserved Decision on Witnesses
The court has reserved its decision on when to summon the witnesses and directed Imran Khan to submit his statement. Imran Khan’s sisters and other family members were present during the proceedings.