Imran Khan Calls for Nationwide Protests After 17-Year Jail Sentence

Pakistan’s former Prime Minister Imran Khan has called on his supporters to launch nationwide protests. He made the appeal after he and his wife, Bushra Bibi, received 17-year prison sentences in the Toshakhana 2 corruption case. The ruling was delivered on Saturday in Rawalpindi. Khan has been held in Adiala Jail since August 2023. His team shared his message late at night on his X account.

The case involves charges tied to state gifts given by the Saudi government in 2021. According to Reuters, the court said the gifts were not reported and were sold unlawfully. Khan’s lawyers said they will challenge the ruling in the high court.

Imran Khan Sentence Sparks Political Tension Across Pakistan

Khan said he expected the verdict. He told his lawyers the ruling was rushed and unsupported by evidence. His team said they were not given full time to argue the case. The message posted online claimed the trial had “military-style” elements. Officials have not responded to that claim.

Khan urged supporters to prepare for street protests. He said the nation must rise for its rights. He also asked the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa chief minister to lead preparations for a movement. His party, Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf, remains under pressure as many senior leaders face cases.

Bushra Bibi was also sentenced in the same ruling. Khan said they were kept in strict conditions. He alleged that their books and TV access were blocked. Prison officials did not comment on the claim. His party said the restrictions show unfair treatment.

The Toshakhana department keeps gifts for officials and heads of state. Items can be purchased through legal steps. The court ruled that Khan did not follow those rules. The former prime minister denies wrongdoing and says the case is political.

Impact on Pakistan’s Politics and Future Stability

The new sentence adds to years of political unrest. Khan has faced many charges since his removal from office in April 2022. He says all charges aim to remove him from politics. His supporters say the trial was biased. Officials insist all actions follow the law.

Reuters and AP report that Pakistan’s political climate remains tense. Many fear new protests may bring fresh clashes. Khan still holds strong public support in many regions. His message may draw large crowds to the streets.

The ruling also affects Pakistan’s current leadership. Analysts say the case may deepen divides between the government and opposition. It may also raise questions about judicial independence. Some experts warn the unrest could slow economic recovery.

Khan said he wants lawyers to take the lead in defending the constitution. He urged legal groups to stand for justice. He also said he does not oppose the military as an institution but criticized its top leaders. His comments may reflect an effort to regain broader support.

The Imran Khan sentence has shaken Pakistan once again. Many expect the next days to show how the streets respond. The political fight around Imran Khan appears far from over.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: Why was Imran Khan sentenced to 17 years?

He was sentenced in the Toshakhana 2 case. The court said he failed to declare and misused state gifts. Khan denies the charges.

Q2: What is the Toshakhana case?

It involves state gifts stored by the government. Officials can buy gifts legally. The court ruled that Khan did not follow the rules.

Q3: Is Bushra Bibi also sentenced?

Yes, she received a 17-year sentence. The court said she was part of the same case. Her lawyers plan to appeal.

Q4: Will there be protests?

Khan has called for nationwide protests. His supporters may respond in large numbers. Authorities have not announced restrictions yet.

Q5: How long has Khan been in jail?

He has been in jail since August 2023. He faces several cases launched after his removal in April 2022.

Trusted Sources: Reuters, AP News, BBC News, The Hindu