Imran Khan, Bushra Bibi seek Toshakhana-2 sentence suspension in IHC

Former Prime Minister Imran Khan and his wife Bushra Bibi have filed fresh petitions with the Islamabad High Court seeking their immediate release on medical grounds, as well as a review of their convictions in the Toshakhana-2 case. Their lawyers argued that the harsh sentences handed down, which included 17 years in prison for criminal breach of trust and seven under the Prevention of Corruption Act, are unlawful due to legal flaws.

The petitioners’ advocates, Salman Safdar and Salman Akram Raja, claim a severe right eye condition afflicting Imran Khan, exacerbated by a blood clot that has reduced his vision to 15 percent. They contend this impairment cannot be adequately addressed within the prison system, demanding an early court hearing for their client’s Al-Qadir Trust corruption case.

Furthermore, they argue that Khan’s conviction in the Toshakhana-2 matter lacks legal legitimacy. Their lawyers alleged improper handling of key witnesses by prosecutors and claimed that treating Khan as a “public servant” for criminal breach of trust was erroneous since he held an elected position.

Khan’s counsel also highlighted his status as someone who has remained on bail throughout his trial, in compliance with conditions imposed by the accountability court. Despite these allegations, both individuals continue to face legal proceedings initiated after their removal from office, leading to accusations of political persecution.

Bushra Bibi, previously granted bail and released from prison for nearly nine months during a separate Toshakhana case, remains incarcerated due to her conviction in the Toshakhana-2 matter. The couple’s current legal battles are part of a broader strategy that also includes challenges against other convictions filed against Khan across jurisdictions.

These petitions come amid ongoing political disputes in Pakistan regarding Imran Khan’s imprisonment and his wife’s health issues, which have sparked protests from supporters who fear their leader is being unfairly targeted.