Pakistan Court to Announce Verdict in Al-Qadir Trust Bribe Case Against Imran Khan on Jan. 13

An Islamabad accountability court is set to deliver its verdict on January 13 in the £190 million bribe case involving former Prime Minister Imran Khan and his wife Bushra Bibi. The case alleges that the couple received land worth billions as a bribe from a prominent real estate tycoon through the Al-Qadir Trust, a charity established by the couple in 2018.

The Allegations

Pakistani authorities have accused Khan and Bushra Bibi of receiving land valued at up to 7 billion rupees ($25 million) from the tycoon in exchange for favors. The favors allegedly involved using £190 million repatriated by Britain in a money laundering case to settle fines imposed on the developer instead of depositing the amount in Pakistan’s national treasury.

Khan’s aides maintain that the land was donated for charitable purposes, while the real estate tycoon denies any wrongdoing.

Repeated Delays Raise Questions

This is the second time the announcement of the verdict has been delayed. Initially scheduled for December 23, it was postponed to January 6 and later deferred again due to the judge’s unavailability.

The PTI party criticized the delays, calling the trial “phony” and questioning the legitimacy of the evidence.

“The decision to postpone raises concerns about the trial’s merits,” the PTI said in a statement.

Legal and Political Fallout

Imran Khan, who has been imprisoned since August 2023 in connection with multiple cases, could benefit from recent amendments allowing him to seek acquittal in at least two corruption cases, including this one and another concerning the illegal sale of state gifts during his tenure as PM.

A Divisive Figure

Since his ouster from office, Khan has led an aggressive campaign against Pakistan’s powerful military, accusing them of orchestrating his removal in collaboration with political rivals. The military has denied these allegations, maintaining its stance of non-interference in politics.

What’s Next?

The January 13 verdict could prove to be a pivotal moment in Imran Khan’s political career, potentially impacting his chances of returning to the political forefront. As Pakistan watches closely, the outcome of this high-profile case could reshape the country’s political landscape.

Key Takeaways

• Verdict Date: January 13 for the £190 million bribe case.
• Key Allegations: Khan and Bushra Bibi allegedly received land as a bribe through the Al-Qadir Trust.
• Delays Questioned: PTI calls the trial’s evidence “phony” and accuses authorities of political motivations.