Jailed Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf founder Imran Khan and his wife Bushra Bibi on Monday filed separate appeals before the Islamabad High Court. They are challenging their convictions and 17-year prison sentences in the Toshakhana-2 case.
The appeals contest the December 20 verdict of a special court. It sentenced the former prime minister and his spouse to 17 years’ imprisonment each for allegedly underpricing the purchase of luxury state gifts. The court also imposed fines totalling Rs16.4 million on the couple.
The case centres on the alleged acquisition of a Bulgari jewellery set from the state gift repository at a nominal price. Prosecutors argued that the set was neither deposited in the Toshakhana nor properly valued in line with applicable rules.
Special Judge Central Shahrukh Arjumand delivered the verdict after conducting around 80 hearings at Adiala Jail. Under the ruling, Imran Khan and Bushra Bibi were each sentenced to 10 years under sections 34 and 409 of the Pakistan Penal Code. They also received an additional seven years each under Section 5 of the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1947.
In their petitions, the appellants sought to set aside the judgment, arguing that the prosecution failed to establish its case. They maintained that the trial court relied heavily on the testimony of an approver. They contend that this could not legally form the basis of a conviction. The appeals also challenge the legality of declaring private appraiser Sohaib Abbasi an approver.
Read: Court Sentences Imran Khan and Bushra Bibi to 17 Years Each in Toshakhana 2 Case
The petitions further argue that multiple punishments cannot be imposed for the same offence. They also claim that the special central court lacked jurisdiction. The appellants also contend that the jewellery set was retained in accordance with Toshakhana rules applicable to former rulers. They claim the reference was filed without a proper investigation.
Imran Khan and Bushra Bibi have alleged that the case is politically motivated. They claim it is part of a broader campaign of victimisation. Imran’s appeal has been assigned diary number 24560, while Bushra Bibi’s petition has been registered as diary number 24561.
The latest convictions add to Imran Khan’s legal challenges. He has been in custody since August 2023. He is also serving a separate 14-year sentence in a land corruption case. Since his removal from office in 2022, he has faced dozens of cases ranging from corruption to allegations involving state secrets, all of which he and his party deny.
What Is the Toshakhana-2 Case?
According to records cited by the Federal Investigation Agency, the Bulgari jewellery set received from the Saudi crown prince was valued at more than Rs71 million. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs also confirmed this figure.
The prosecution alleged that the accused had the set appraised at just Rs5.9 million by a private firm. The items included a necklace, bracelet, ring, and earrings. Authorities claimed undue influence was exerted to undervalue the set. They allege it was neither deposited in the Toshakhana nor assessed correctly.
The case formally began on July 13, 2024, when the National Accountability Bureau took both accused into custody at Adiala Jail. After the Supreme Court ruled on NAB law amendments, the case was transferred to the FIA Anti-Corruption Court in September 2024. There, the trial proceeded with extensive witness testimony.
