The written verdict in the Toshakhana-II case against former Prime Minister Imran Khan and his wife Bushra Bibi has been released, detailing the reasons behind the sentences awarded by the court. The decision has clarified that leniency was shown to Imran Khan due to his advanced age, while Bushra Bibi received a comparatively lesser sentence because she is a woman.
The verdict was authored by Special Judge Central Arjumand Shah, who convicted both accused and sentenced them to a total of 17 years’ imprisonment each, along with a fine of Rs164.25 million per person. The court held that the prosecution successfully proved its case and that both accused were guilty of criminal breach of trust.
According to the written judgment, the prosecution presented sufficient evidence to establish that Imran Khan and Bushra Bibi were involved in the illegal retention and misuse of state gifts, constituting serious violations of trust. The court observed that both accused committed the offence deliberately and with full knowledge of the legal implications of their actions.
The judgment states that Imran Khan was sentenced to 10 years’ imprisonment under Section 409 of the Pakistan Penal Code for criminal breach of trust by a public servant. In addition, he was awarded a further seven years’ imprisonment under the Prevention of Corruption Act, bringing his total sentence to 17 years.
Bushra Bibi was also sentenced to a total of 17 years in prison for her role in the Toshakhana-II case. The court imposed an identical fine of Rs164,256,650 on each of the convicts. The verdict further states that in case of failure to pay the fine, both Imran Khan and Bushra Bibi will have to undergo an additional six months’ imprisonment each.
In its reasoning, the court noted that while the offence carried the potential for harsher punishment, mitigating factors were taken into account at the time of sentencing. The judgment explicitly mentions that Imran Khan’s advanced age was considered a relevant factor, while Bushra Bibi was granted leniency on account of being a woman. On these grounds, the court awarded the minimum sentence prescribed under the law.
The written verdict also confirms that the period already spent by the accused in custody has been counted toward their sentences. This adjustment was made in accordance with legal provisions to ensure that the total term of imprisonment reflects time already served.
The court emphasized that the Toshakhana-II case involved serious misuse of authority and violation of public trust, particularly because Imran Khan held the highest executive office in the country at the relevant time. The judgment stresses that public office holders are expected to adhere to the highest standards of honesty and transparency, and any deviation from these standards undermines public confidence in state institutions.
The verdict further highlights that the defence failed to present evidence strong enough to rebut the prosecution’s claims or create reasonable doubt. As a result, the court concluded that the charges against both accused stood fully established.
The Toshakhana-II case has drawn significant public and political attention, as it relates to the handling of state gifts received during Imran Khan’s tenure as prime minister. The written decision is expected to play a key role in the appeals process, should the convicts choose to challenge the judgment in higher courts.
Legal analysts believe the detailed reasoning provided in the verdict will be closely scrutinized, particularly the court’s explanation for awarding reduced punishment. The case continues to be seen as a major development in Pakistan’s accountability landscape, with potential legal and political implications in the days ahead.
