Imran Khan and Bushra Bibi Sentenced to 17 Years in Jail in Toshakhana Corruption Case
In a major legal and political development, a special court in Pakistan has sentenced former Prime Minister Imran Khan and his wife, Bushra Bibi, to 17 years in prison in the high-profile Toshakhana-2 corruption case.
The verdict, delivered on Saturday at Rawalpindi’s Adiala Jail, marks another dramatic turn in the ongoing legal battles facing the ex-premier and his Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party.
The sentencing was handed down by Special Judge Central Shahrukh Arjumand. Both Imran Khan and Bushra Bibi were convicted under the Prevention of Corruption Act.
The court also imposed a fine of 16.4 million Pakistani Rupees on the couple, with additional jail time threatened if the penalty is not paid.
What is the Toshakhana Case?
The case centers on Pakistan’s Toshakhana—a state treasury where gifts received by public officials from foreign dignitaries must be deposited. By law, these items belong to the state, not the individual.
The charges allege that Imran Khan illegally retained and undervalued expensive gifts received during his tenure as PM (2018-2022), most notably a luxury Bulgari jewelry set gifted by Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in May 2021.
The Breakdown of the Sentence
The 17-year sentence is bifurcated:
10 years under Section 409 for criminal breach of trust.
7 years under Section 5(2)47 for criminal misconduct by a public servant.
Bushra Bibi was sentenced under the same provisions. This verdict is separate from other ongoing cases against Khan, including those involving state secrets and an unlawful marriage allegation.
The Controversial Gifts at the Heart of the Scandal
Investigations revealed Imran Khan received 108 gifts while in office. Key items cited in proceedings include:
A Graff wristwatch worth approximately Rs. 8.5 crore.
Seven Rolex watches valued around Rs. 15 crore.
Expensive cufflinks, rings, and pens from foreign leaders.
A Case with Deep Political Repercussions
This sentencing intensifies the political crisis in Pakistan. Imran Khan’s PTI party has consistently denounced all charges as a “politically motivated” attempt to eliminate him from the country’s political landscape. Legal analysts suggest the rapid succession of verdicts—coming ahead of general elections—points to a concerted effort to sideline the former cricket star turned populist leader.
The case gained traction due to a reported misstep involving Khan’s wife. As per reports, the gold and diamond watch from the Saudi Crown Prince was gifted to Bushra Bibi, who then tasked aides to sell it. The jeweler’s inquiry to the manufacturer allegedly triggered a chain reaction that led back to Saudi officials and ultimately exposed the alleged corruption.
Why This Matters Now
The verdict solidifies Imran Khan’s status as a jailed opposition leader and casts a long shadow over Pakistan’s already turbulent democratic process. It raises immediate questions about electoral fairness, the role of the judiciary, and the future of the country’s most potent political movement. With Khan barred from office and facing decades in prison, Pakistan’s path forward appears more fractured and uncertain than ever.
