PTI Founder Sentenced to 14 Years, Bushra Bibi to 7 Years with Heavy Fines
RAWALPINDI: An accountability court sentenced Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan to 14 years and his wife, Bushra Bibi, to 7 years in the £190 million case. Judge Nasir Javed Rana also imposed fines of Rs1 million on Khan and Rs0.5 million on Bushra.
If the fines are not paid, Khan will serve an additional six months and Bushra three months in prison.
Legal Experts’ Opinions
‘No Chance of Defence’
Former Attorney General Ashtar Ausaf remarked, “When cases are fought politically rather than based on evidence, such outcomes occur.”
He added, “This was a straightforward case, but the investigation seemed politically motivated.”
‘Punishment Was More Than Expected’
Former Supreme Court Bar President Shahzad Shaukat commented, “This was a clear case. The evidence presented made the punishment expected.”
He emphasized, “The serious question was why the money, meant for the state treasury, was deposited into another account.”
‘Open and Shut Case’
Advocate Raja Khalid stated, “This was an open and shut case. £190 million was transferred to the UK through money laundering, which should have been in the Pakistani government’s account.”
Experts acknowledged Imran Khan’s right to appeal but noted the strong evidence makes the case challenging.
