Former Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan and his wife, Bushra Bibi, have been sentenced to further prison time after being convicted in a fraud case involving state gifts, the latest legal blow in a series of cases against the jailed opposition leader.
The court sentenced Khan to 10 years for criminal breach of trust and seven years for criminal misconduct, along with a fine exceeding 16 million Pakistani rupees (£42,600).
These new terms will reportedly run concurrently with his existing sentences. The couple was found guilty of illegally retaining a luxury Bulgari jewelry set gifted to Bibi by Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman during a 2021 state visit, and of undervaluing it to purchase it at a reduced price.
Khan, 73, has repeatedly called the charges politically motivated. His lawyer, Salman Safdar, told the BBC they plan to challenge the verdict in the high court, criticizing the late-night announcement of the sentencing.
Khan is already serving a 14-year term in a separate corruption case and faces over 100 additional charges.
The ruling noted the judge showed leniency due to Khan’s “old age.” Despite being imprisoned since August 2023 and denied regular family visits, messages attributed to Khan continue to appear on social media, sharply criticizing the current government and military leadership.
By James Kisoo
