Bushra Bibi Seeks Expedited Hearing in £190 Million Case
The couple's conviction has sparked widespread debate and controversy, with many questioning the credibility of the evidence and the fairness of the trial. As the case continues to unfold, it remains to be seen whether the Islamabad High Court will grant the couple's request for an expedited hearing and suspend their conviction.
Former Prime Minister Imran Khan and his wife Bushra Bibi have filed an application with the Islamabad High Court to expedite the hearing of their appeal against their convictions in the £190 million case, arguing that delays in hearing their plea are depriving them of their constitutional right to a speedy hearing.
The couple was convicted in January for receiving billions of rupees and land from Bahria Town Ltd to legalize £50 billion returned by the UK, and are serving 14-year and seven-year prison terms respectively. Their counsel argued that the conviction lacked credible evidence and suffered from procedural lapses, and that the delays in hearing their plea are violating their constitutional rights.
The plea also cited Article 9 of the Constitution, arguing that there should be no legal or procedural impediment in fixing the application for suspension. A similar plea was filed on behalf of Bushra Bibi, who is serving a seven-year sentence, arguing that the delays violate Articles 4 and 9 of the Constitution and that she is entitled to additional protections under Islamic jurisprudence and law.
The National Accountability Bureau (NAB) has sought adjournments, citing the need for special prosecutors. However, Imran Khan and Bushra Bibi claim that the conviction is a result of "political victimisation" and that they are entitled to a speedy hearing.
The Islamabad High Court is expected to hear the application soon, and a decision on the expedited hearing is awaited. The outcome of this case will have significant implications for the former Prime Minister and his wife, and will be closely watched by the nation.