IHC Allows Verdict in £190 Million Corruption Case Against Imran Khan

In a significant development in Pakistan's political landscape, the Islamabad High Court (IHC) has cleared the way for a verdict in the £190 million corruption case against former Prime Minister Imran Khan and his wife, Bushra Bibi. This case has been a focal point of controversy, raising questions about accountability and governance in the country. The IHC's decision to vacate the restraining order against the pronouncement of the verdict signals that the trial is nearing its conclusion.

The accountability court recently wrapped up the cross-examination of prosecution witnesses, with the defense counsel having examined the last witness. The restraining order had been put in place following petitions filed by Mr. Khan and Bushra Bibi, who sought their acquittal in this high-profile case. The IHC, while addressing these petitions, instructed the trial court to thoroughly evaluate the acquittal requests and deliver a reasoned verdict.

The IHC division bench, which included Chief Justice Aamer Farooq and Justice Miangul Hassan Aurangzeb, heard arguments from the lawyers representing the couple. Advocate Chaudhry Zaheer Abbas, one of the defense attorneys, pointed out that the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) had filed a reference in December 2023 against eight individuals, including Mr. Khan. He noted that only two individuals have been formally charged, while six others remain absconders.

During the proceedings, Justice Aurangzeb raised questions about the operational status of the trust linked to the funds in question. Chief Justice Farooq also inquired about the timing of the acquittal application, suggesting it might be connected to the Supreme Court’s recent ruling on NAB amendments. Special Prosecutor Amjad Pervez emphasized that Bushra Bibi, being a private citizen without any public office, should be considered separately, as witness statements have not implicated her in any wrongdoing.

The IHC has directed the accountability court to make a determination regarding the acquittal pleas, with a detailed written order expected to follow. The NAB's reference against Mr. Khan alleges that during his tenure, the cabinet approved a confidential deed in 2019 to return £190 million, which had been seized by the UK’s National Crime Agency (NCA), to real estate tycoon Malik Riaz. The case claims that in exchange for facilitating this transaction, the former prime minister and his wife received billions of rupees and land worth hundreds of kanals from Bahria Town.

As this case unfolds, it serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges faced by Pakistan in terms of political accountability and transparency. The outcome of this trial could have far-reaching implications not only for Imran Khan and his political future but also for the broader landscape of governance in the country. Citizens are left to ponder the importance of integrity in leadership and the necessity of holding public officials accountable for their actions. The coming days will be crucial as the trial reaches its conclusion, and the verdict will undoubtedly be watched closely by both supporters and critics alike.