Islamabad; Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan and his wife Bushra Bibi have approached the Islamabad High Court (IHC), seeking an early hearing of their petitions for suspension of their sentences in the £190 million case. This marks a significant development in the high-profile corruption case involving the former prime minister and his spouse.
The couple submitted fresh applications requesting the court to expedite the hearing of their main petitions, which challenge their convictions. Imran Khan and Bushra Bibi were convicted and sentenced on January 17 this year, following which they filed appeals against the verdict on January 27. The IHC conducted the first hearing on their petitions seeking suspension of the sentences on May 15.
Their latest plea highlights that the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) has been repeatedly seeking adjournments, thereby delaying the proceedings unnecessarily. The petition further pointed out that despite earlier assurances by the court to prioritize their matter, their pleas have not been scheduled for early hearing.
They requested the court to take notice of the delays and issue directions to promptly fix their petitions for hearing, arguing that prolonged uncertainty over their sentences is unjust. The applications emphasize the importance of an early decision to ensure fair administration of justice.
The IHC is now expected to consider their request and decide on setting an early date for the hearing of their appeals, which could determine whether their sentences remain suspended during the ongoing legal process.
