Former Pakistan PM Imran Khan Handed 17-Year Jail Term in Toshakhana Corruption Case

Former Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan and his wife Bushra Bibi have been sentenced to 17 years in prison. A special court announced the verdict at Rawalpindi’s Adiala Jail on December 20. The case involves corruption linked to state gifts from Saudi Arabia.

The new sentences add to the couple’s legal troubles. Khan and his wife were already serving time for a separate conviction. This ruling intensifies the political crisis surrounding the former cricket star.

Details of the Court’s Corruption Verdict

Judge Shahrukh Arjumand issued the ruling inside the jail. According to PTI reports, the court delivered a split sentence. The couple received 10 years for criminal breach of trust under Section 409.

They also received seven years under Pakistan’s Prevention of Corruption Act. The court imposed a fine of 10 million Pakistani rupees on each defendant. This case is commonly known as the Toshakhana, or state gift repository, case.

Prosecutors alleged Khan and his wife stole valuable gifts. These items reportedly included expensive watches, diamonds, and gold. The gifts were received by Khan’s government in 2021.

Broader Impact and International Scrutiny

The sentencing has drawn global attention to Khan’s treatment. His sons recently spoke to Sky News about his prison conditions. They claimed he is held in solitary confinement with poor sanitation.

Kasim Khan alleged his father faces psychological torture. He expressed fear the family might never see him again. These claims have sparked criticism of the Pakistani government.

International bodies are now involved. The United Nations has called for an end to Khan’s solitary confinement. This pressure highlights the case’s significance beyond Pakistan’s borders.

The 17-year Imran Khan sentence marks a pivotal moment in Pakistan’s turbulent politics. It raises serious questions about judicial processes and prisoner treatment in the country.

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What is the Toshakhana case about?

It involves allegations that Imran Khan and his wife illegally retained state gifts. These valuable items, received from foreign governments, were supposed to be deposited in a government repository. The case centers on accusations of their theft and sale for personal profit.

Where is Imran Khan currently imprisoned?

Khan is being held at Adiala Jail in Rawalpindi. The special court held its proceedings inside the prison facility. His wife, Bushra Bibi, was also sentenced and is imprisoned.

What has been the international reaction?

The United Nations has expressed concern over Khan’s treatment. It specifically called for his release from solitary confinement. This follows allegations of harsh prison conditions detailed by his family in international media interviews.

What was Imran Khan previously convicted for?

He was previously convicted in the Al-Qadir Trust corruption case. That conviction also resulted in a prison sentence. The latest 17-year term is for a separate, though related, set of corruption charges.

Why is this case politically significant?

Imran Khan remains a highly popular opposition figure in Pakistan. His legal battles are seen by supporters as politically motivated. The harsh sentence could further inflame tensions within the country’s polarized political landscape.