The long-awaited decision in the £190 million reference involving Pakistan’s former Prime Minister Imran Khan and his wife, Bushra Bibi, has been postponed once again. An accountability court has now set 13 January as the new date for the verdict, citing the unavailability of Judge Nasir Javed Rana.
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Initially slated for Monday, the hearing was deferred when court staff informed Khan’s legal counsel, Khalid Yousuf Chaudhry, of the judge’s leave. The session, originally planned to take place at Adiala Jail, was later moved to the NAB Court in G-11 due to logistical difficulties in ensuring the presence of the defendants.
Context of the £190 Million Case: The case revolves around allegations that Imran Khan, during his tenure as Prime Minister, approved the adjustment of Rs50 billion (approximately £190 million) transferred by the UK’s National Crime Agency (NCA) to the Pakistani government. On December 3, 2019, Khan reportedly secured cabinet approval for the settlement without disclosing its confidential terms.
According to the National Accountability Bureau (NAB), the funds were supposed to be submitted to Pakistan’s Supreme Court. However, it is alleged that Khan and his wife acquired land worth billions of rupees, ostensibly for the construction of an educational institute, as part of the settlement.
Other Adjournments: GHQ Attack and 9 May Cases: In related developments, hearings in 13 other high-profile cases, including those concerning the GHQ attack and the 9 May incidents, have been rescheduled for 8 January. The delay was attributed to Judge Amjad Ali Shah’s absence due to training commitments, with exemptions granted to all accused for the day.
Details of the GHQ Attack Case: The GHQ attack case pertains to a violent incident led by former provincial law minister Raja Basharat. According to the charge sheet, the attackers breached the gates of Pakistan’s General Headquarters (GHQ), clashing with military personnel and vandalizing sensitive properties. The mob employed petrol bombs, sticks, and stones, causing extensive damage, including shattered windows and fires within the premises.
The assailants allegedly chanted anti-state slogans and launched an organized assault on the ISI building, part of a broader conspiracy to incite insurrection. Six individuals were apprehended at the scene, with additional arrests following their identification.
These cases underline a volatile chapter in Pakistan’s political and legal landscape, as the judiciary grapples with high-stakes proceedings involving influential figures and significant national implications.
