Pakistan’s former prime minister Imran Khan and his wife Bushra Bibi have been sentenced to 17 years of rigorous imprisonment each in the Toshakhana-2 case, deepening the legal troubles faced by the former premier.
The verdict was pronounced on Saturday by a special court of Pakistan’s Federal Investigation Agency (FIA). The decision was delivered by Special Judge Central Shahrukh Arjumand during proceedings held inside Adiala Jail, where Imran Khan is currently incarcerated.
The court found both Imran Khan and Bushra Bibi guilty of misuse of authority and criminal breach of trust in connection with the handling of state gifts received during Khan’s tenure as prime minister.
According to the ruling, Imran Khan was sentenced to 10 years in prison under Sections 34 and 409 of the Pakistan Penal Code, which relate to common intention and criminal breach of trust. An additional seven-year sentence was imposed under Section 5(2) of the Prevention of Corruption Act. Bushra Bibi received an identical sentence under the same legal provisions.
Apart from the prison terms, the court also imposed a fine of Rs 16.4 million on each convict. The judgment stated that failure to pay the fine would lead to additional imprisonment.
The Toshakhana-2 case centres on allegations involving a luxury Bulgari jewellery set that was gifted to Imran Khan by the Saudi Crown Prince during an official visit in May 2021. Investigators allege that the jewellery was later purchased at a price significantly below its market value, in violation of Toshakhana regulations governing the retention and valuation of gifts received by public office holders.
Toshakhana rules require strict disclosure and fair valuation of gifts received by government officials, and the prosecution argued that these guidelines were deliberately bypassed.
This latest conviction is expected to further complicate Imran Khan’s legal situation, as he continues to face multiple cases related to corruption, misuse of authority, and financial misconduct. Legal experts suggest the ruling could have long-term implications for his political future amid Pakistan’s ongoing political uncertainty.