IHC Seeks FIA Response on Imran Khan, Bushra Bibi's Acquittal Pleas

The Islamabad High Court (IHC) has sought a formal reply from the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) regarding acquittal petitions filed by former Prime Minister Imran Khan and his wife, Bushra Bibi, in the Toshakhana II case. Justice Raja Inam Minhas presided over the hearing and issued notices to the FIA, scheduling the next hearing for January 28.

During the proceedings, Khan’s legal counsel, Salman Safdar, requested a stay on the trial court proceedings, but the court declined, citing the absence of judicial precedent for such a move at this stage. Safdar also sought a bench change, suggesting Justice Gul Hassan Aurangzeb preside over the matter. However, Justice Minhas rejected the plea, emphasizing that the current case concerns acquittal pleas, not bail applications.

The FIA accuses the couple of acquiring a Bulgari jewellery set, gifted by a foreign leader, at a significantly reduced price, allegedly causing financial losses to the national exchequer. The set includes a necklace, earrings, bracelets, and rings. The prosecution claims the couple influenced the valuation process to secure the items at a lower cost.

Khan’s legal team has denied the allegations, stating that the jewellery was purchased in line with the 2018 Toshakhana policy and paid for according to official valuations. This case marks the third graft reference against Khan and Bushra Bibi, who were indicted last month over the matter.

The couple has petitioned the IHC to overturn the trial court's decision, which rejected their initial acquittal pleas.

The Toshakhana II case has become a focal point in Pakistan's political and legal landscape, with both sides presenting strong arguments. As the IHC deliberates, the nation watches closely to see if the acquittal pleas will bring relief or further complications for the former prime minister and his wife.