Former Pakistan PM Imran Khan Sentenced to 14 Years in Al-Qadir Trust Case
Former Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan has been sentenced to 14 years in prison for his alleged involvement in the £190 million Al-Qadir Trust case. The case also implicated his wife, Bushra Bibi, who has been awarded a seven-year jail term.
Bushra Bibi was arrested immediately after the verdict was announced at Adiala Jail, where the couple was present to hear the decision.
Details of the Al-Qadir Trust Case
The case was initiated by Pakistan’s National Accountability Bureau (NAB), accusing Khan of playing a “pivotal role” in the misappropriation of funds. The £190 million, originally intended for the state of Pakistan, was allegedly diverted to an account linked to land payments by Bahria Town Karachi.
Despite repeated opportunities, NAB officials claimed Khan failed to provide sufficient justification or evidence to explain the transactions. This deliberate evasion was cited as evidence of mala fide intent.
Key Individuals Involved
Alongside Imran Khan and Bushra Bibi, several others were named as suspects in the case, including:
- Malik Riaz Hussain: Property tycoon
- Ahmed Ali Riaz: Malik Riaz’s son
- Mirza Shehzad Akbar
- Zulfi Bukhari
These individuals, however, reportedly avoided court proceedings and were declared proclaimed offenders.
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Controversy Surrounding the Verdict
Sources close to Imran Khan have called the verdict a foregone conclusion, alleging undue influence from Pakistan’s military establishment on the judiciary. “Imran Khan was not given a fair trial,” they claimed, highlighting perceived biases during the legal proceedings.
The sentencing marks a significant chapter in Pakistan’s political history. Critics argue that the trial raises concerns about judicial independence and political interference, further polarizing an already divided nation.
