Court Delivers Verdict in High-Profile Corruption Case
On Saturday, a special court in Pakistan imposed 17-year prison terms on former premier Imran Khan and his wife, following a corruption investigation centered on the retention of valuable state gifts.
The ruling was delivered during proceedings held at Rawalpindi's jail facility, where Khan, aged 73, has been incarcerated for over two years.
Under Pakistani regulations, officials may keep state gifts after making a specified payment. However, Khan faces allegations of acquiring a Bulgari jewelry set by paying significantly less than its actual market worth.
Political Reactions and Legal Disputes
Khan's political organization, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), immediately condemned the court's decision. In a post on social media platform X, the party stated: "a closed door jail trial is neither free nor fair, it is in fact a Military Trial."
The PTI further characterized the judicial body as "a kangaroo court."
In contrast, government representatives defended the outcome. Information Minister Attaullah Tarar informed local media, "I think this is a fair decision."
Tarar explained that the verdict followed an extensive trial where evidence conclusively demonstrated "criminal breach of trust by a public servant and misuse of authority."
The minister noted that this new sentence will commence only after Khan completes his existing 14-year prison term, which also stems from corruption charges.
Allegations of Mistreatment and Political Context
This judicial development occurs amid growing complaints from Khan's relatives and supporters about his treatment in detention.
Khan's sister, who recently visited him after public demonstrations, reported to journalists that the couple faces "mental torture" due to being kept in "isolation."
Khan served as Pakistan's leader from 2018 until 2022, when parliament removed him through a no-confidence motion.
