Ex-PM Imran Khan and Wife Sentenced to 17 Years Over Corruption Charges. Pakistan’s former prime minister Imran Khan and his wife Bushra Bibi have been sentenced to 17 years in prison after a Pakistani court found them guilty of illegally retaining and selling valuable state gifts. The verdict was announced on December 20, 2025, ending a long-running legal case that has remained in the public spotlight for years. The ruling matters because it reinforces laws governing the use of official gifts and has deep political and legal implications in Pakistan.
What the Court Decided
The court ruled that the couple unlawfully kept and sold gifts they received while Imran Khan was in office. These items included expensive jewellery reportedly gifted by the Saudi Arabian government. Under Pakistani law, public office holders must buy such gifts at full market value if they wish to keep them and must declare any profit made from later sales.
Prosecutors told the court that Imran Khan and Bushra Bibi bought the gifts for a much lower price than their real worth. According to the case record, the couple paid about $10,000 for items valued at more than $285,000. The court accepted this argument and concluded that the difference amounted to illegal financial gain.
Background of the Case
The case forms part of a broader legal battle faced by Imran Khan since his removal from office in 2022. Investigators focused on records from the Toshakhana, the state treasury where gifts from foreign leaders are deposited. The law allows officials to keep gifts only after proper valuation and payment.
Prosecutors said the couple failed to follow these rules. They argued that the undervaluation of the gifts caused a loss to the state and violated transparency requirements.
Imran Khan and Bushra Bibi have consistently denied the allegations. They maintained that they followed the rules in place at the time and did not intend to cause any loss to the public.
Reactions From Supporters and Government
Supporters of Imran Khan strongly criticized the verdict. His party, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf, called the proceedings unfair and politically motivated. Party representatives said the trial took place inside Adiala prison and claimed that Khan’s family was not allowed to attend.
A spokesperson for Khan argued that the court imposed criminal liability without clear proof of intent or personal gain. Supporters described the verdict as a dark moment for justice in the country.
The government rejected these claims. Information Minister Attaullah Tarar said the court examined solid evidence before delivering the decision. He stated that the judgment showed accountability and proved that no one is above the law.
Impact on Politics and the Public
The sentencing is likely to deepen political tensions in Pakistan. Imran Khan remains a popular figure, and his imprisonment continues to trigger protests and legal challenges. For the public, the case highlights strict rules around public office, transparency, and the handling of state property.
Legal experts say the verdict could influence future cases involving public officials and state assets. It may also affect upcoming political strategies and public trust in institutions.
What Happens Next
Imran Khan and Bushra Bibi are expected to appeal the verdict in higher courts. Their legal team has already signaled plans to challenge both the trial process and the interpretation of the law. Until any appeal succeeds, the sentence will remain in place.
Authorities have not announced any changes to prison arrangements or timelines for appeal hearings.
FAQs
Why were Imran Khan and Bushra Bibi convicted?
They were convicted for illegally retaining and selling state gifts at prices far below their market value.
What does Pakistani law say about state gifts?
Officials must pay full market value to keep gifts and must declare any profit made from selling them.
Did the couple admit wrongdoing?
No. Both denied all charges and said they followed the rules.
Where was the verdict announced?
The verdict was announced during proceedings held at Adiala prison in Rawalpindi.
Can the sentence be overturned?
Yes. The couple can appeal the decision in higher courts.
Conclusion
The 17-year prison sentence for Imran Khan and Bushra Bibi marks a major development in Pakistan’s legal and political landscape. The court’s decision underscores the importance of transparency and accountability for public officials. As appeals move forward, the case will continue to shape public debate, legal standards, and the future of Pakistani politics.
