On Monday, the Islamabad High Court (IHC) made a significant decision by suspending the 14-year sentences handed to former Prime Minister Imran Khan and his wife Bushra Bibi in the Toshakhana reference. This move comes after an Islamabad accountability court sentenced them on January 31, just days before the general elections.
The hearing and all…
The original verdict not only included the 14-year prison terms but also banned Imran Khan and Bushra Bibi from holding any public office for a decade, along with imposing a hefty fine of Rs.787 million each. Additionally, the couple faced another seven-year jail term each in a case related to their marriage during Bushra’s Iddat period.
Prior to these cases, Imran and another PTI leader Shah Mehmood Qureshi were sentenced to 10 years in prison under the Official Secrets Act for the breach of state secrets. Furthermore, the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) had filed a fresh reference against Imran and Bushra for retaining a jewellery set from the Saudi crown prince, allegedly against an undervalued assessment.
The IHC’s decision to suspend these sentences marks a significant legal development, indicating that Imran and Bushra have a chance to challenge the convictions and fines imposed on them. The court’s decision to admit their appeals and requisition trial court records demonstrates a commitment to due process and fair trial.
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Imran and Bushra’s legal battles have been ongoing, with challenges to their convictions and the status of their residence being declared a sub-jail. The IHC’s involvement in reviewing these cases underscores the importance of judicial oversight and the rule of law in such high-profile matters.
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