Former Pakistan PM Imran Khan Granted Bail in Toshakhana Case, Release Uncertain

Imran Khan, Pakistan's former Prime Minister, has been granted bail by the Islamabad High Court in the Toshakhana (state treasury) case, according to his political party, Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI). Despite this legal reprieve, his release remains uncertain due to other pending cases, including allegations of inciting violence against the state.

Khan, 72, has been imprisoned since August 2023 and previously faced a 14-year sentence alongside his wife, Bushra Bibi, for allegedly misusing state gifts during his tenure as PM from 2018 to 2022. Both deny wrongdoing, and their sentences were suspended on appeal. The accusations center on the illegal procurement and sale of gifts valued at over 140 million rupees ($2.5 million), including diamond jewelry and luxury watches.

His wife was released last month, but questions remain about Khan's immediate fate, as PTI lawyer Salman Safdar stated that formal orders are awaited to proceed with efforts for his release. Khan has reportedly been granted bail or acquitted in most cases, but his legal challenges persist.

This development adds another layer to Pakistan's politically charged climate as Khan, a polarizing figure, continues to face significant legal and political hurdles.