Former Pakistan PM Imran Khan and Wife Sentenced to 17 Years

WISE NEWS PRESS / ISLAMABAD, PAKISTAN — DEC. 21, 2025

A Pakistani court has sentenced imprisoned former Prime Minister Imran Khan and his wife, Bushra Bibi, to 17 years in prison each in a high-profile corruption case. The verdict, announced on Saturday, pertains to the illegal retention and sale of state gifts, known locally as the "Toshakhana" case. The court ruled that the couple undervalued expensive gifts received from foreign dignitaries during Khan's tenure as Prime Minister.

The prosecution focused on a specific set of world-renowned Bulgari jewelry gifted by Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in 2021. Valued at approximately $285,000, the jewelry was reportedly declared by the couple at a value slightly over $10,000. Under Pakistani law, officials must pay a designated percentage of the market value to keep gifts or declare any proceeds from their sale.

Opposition Cries Foul, Labeling Trial "Unfair"

Khan’s party, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), immediately condemned the sentencing, calling it a "black page in the country's history." In a statement released on social media, the party argued that the proceedings were held behind closed doors within the prison, preventing a free and fair trial. "This was effectively a military-style trial where the family was excluded from the courtroom," the PTI stated, vowing to appeal the decision in higher courts.

Government Defends Judicial Integrity

In contrast, Information Minister Attaullah Tarar defended the court's decision, stating that the sentencing followed a meticulous review of concrete evidence. Tarar emphasized that the judiciary acted independently and that the verdict serves as proof of the couple's involvement in corruption. "The court has delivered a fair judgment based on the law," the minister added during a press briefing.

The 73-year-old former cricket star has been in custody since 2023, serving various sentences related to corruption and other charges. Despite his legal battles, Khan remains a highly popular figure in Pakistan. Although his party performed strongly in the 2024 general elections, it failed to secure a majority amidst widespread allegations of electoral fraud—claims the current government continues to deny.

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