LEGAL

Imran Khan Sentenced to 14 Years, Bushra Bibi to 7 in £190M Case

Accountability Court sentences PTI founder Imran Khan to 14 years and Bushra Bibi to 7 years in the £190M case. Al-Qadir University handed over to the government.
2025-01-17
Imran Khan Sentenced to 14 Years, Bushra Bibi to 7 in £190M Case

The Accountability Court sentenced Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan to 14 years of imprisonment with hard labor, along with a fine of Rs 1 million. His wife, Bushra Bibi, received a 7-year sentence and a fine of Rs 5 million.

The verdict in the £190 million case was delivered by Judge Nasir Javed Rana at Adiala Jail amidst strict security. The case, centered on allegations of misuse of authority and financial irregularities in the Al-Qadir Trust University project, concluded after a year of legal proceedings. Over 100 hearings were held before the verdict was reserved on December 18, 2024.

Details of the Verdict
The court ruled that if Imran Khan fails to pay the fine, his prison term will extend by six months, while Bushra Bibi’s sentence would be extended by three months for non-payment. Additionally, the court ordered the government to take over Al-Qadir Trust University, citing its role in the case.

Security Arrangements
Security was heightened in and around Adiala Jail, with female police officers and plainclothes personnel ensuring public order. Following the verdict, Bushra Bibi was taken into custody directly from the courtroom.

Background of the Case
The case pertains to the alleged approval of a secret agreement in the federal cabinet by Imran Khan and his advisor, Mirza Shahzad Akbar, with the UK’s National Crime Agency (NCA) in 2019. The agreement allegedly facilitated financial benefits in exchange for approving a confidentiality deed. Bushra Bibi was accused of playing a pivotal role in these activities.

Al-Qadir Trust University, a key element of the case, was initially envisioned as a prestigious institution but struggled to attract students, with only 200 enrollments over four years.

Key Developments
The verdict faced multiple delays, initially scheduled for December 23, 2024, and then postponed several times before being announced on January 17, 2025.

Impact
This judgment is being seen as a significant milestone in Pakistan’s accountability efforts, marking a high-profile conviction involving a former Prime Minister and his spouse.