Justice Undone: Former PM Imran Khan Sentenced to 14 Years, Bushra BB 7 Year in Controversial £190 Million Al-Qadir Trust Case
“A Black Day for Justice in Pakistan”: Verdict Allegedly Leaked to Journalists Before Announcement, Raising Serious Questions Over Judicial Bias
By: Syed Umer Gardezi
Islamabad: In a decision that has sent shockwaves across Pakistan, an accountability court operating within the confines of Adiala Jail sentenced former Prime Minister and Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) chairman Imran Khan to 14 years of rigorous imprisonment, while his wife, Bushra Bibi, received a 7-year sentence in the controversial £190 million Al-Qadir Trust case.
The verdict, delivered by Judge Nasir Javed Rana, has been widely criticized as another blow to Pakistan’s already fragile judicial system. Reports suggest that the decision was shared with selected journalists a day prior, raising serious concerns about the transparency and impartiality of the process.
The court imposed a fine of PKR 1 million on Khan and PKR 500,000 on Bushra Bibi, with additional imprisonment terms in case of non-payment. Furthermore, the Al-Qadir Trust University has been ordered to be taken into state custody. Bushra Bibi was arrested immediately after the verdict, while the judge left the premises amidst heavy security.
Legal Controversies and Flawed Proceedings
Imran Khan’s legal team, including Barrister Gohar Khan and Salman Akram Raja, expressed grave concerns over the trial, citing repeated delays and procedural irregularities. Speaking to the media, Barrister Gohar remarked, “Justice was not served today. This verdict was predetermined, and we will continue to fight for justice in the higher courts.”
Earlier, Salman Akram Raja revealed that he was barred from entering the courtroom, despite being part of Khan’s legal defense. “This case is a textbook example of judicial overreach and political victimization,” he added.
A Trial Clouded by Controversy
The trial, which spanned over a year, was marred by frequent judge changes, lack of transparency, and allegations of political interference. The original charges revolved around allegations that Imran Khan and his wife received illegal benefits in the form of land and cash in exchange for facilitating the settlement of £190 million recovered by the UK’s National Crime Agency (NCA).
Despite repeated assurances of a fair trial, the rushed and secretive manner of the proceedings has cast a long shadow over the judiciary’s credibility.
Security Measures and Public Reaction
Heavy security surrounded Adiala Jail on the day of the verdict, with elite forces and plainclothes officers deployed to maintain order. Media access was restricted, further fueling suspicions of judicial bias.
The sentencing has sparked outrage among PTI supporters and civil society activists, who have termed it a “judicial coup” and an attempt to silence dissent. Social media platforms erupted with hashtags like #JusticeForImranKhan and #JudicialBias trending nationwide.
Implications for Pakistan’s Political Landscape
The verdict is expected to deepen the political crisis in Pakistan, where Imran Khan remains a popular yet polarizing figure. Analysts warn that this decision could further erode public trust in the judiciary and exacerbate the country’s socio-political divisions.
A Dark Day for Justice
As Pakistan reels from this latest controversy, questions linger over the integrity of its justice system. Observers fear that such decisions, perceived as politically motivated, will only serve to undermine the rule of law and democracy in the country.
This case serves as a grim reminder of the challenges facing Pakistan’s judicial and political institutions, with many asking: Is there any justice left in Pakistan?
