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Former Prime Minister Imran Khan has been sentenced to 14 years in prison on corruption charges. The ruling, delivered by Judge Nasir Javed Rana, comes amid a string of legal challenges faced by the former leader since his removal from office in 2022.
Khan, once hailed as a national hero for his cricketing achievements and later for his political ascent, was found guilty of abusing his position during his time as prime minister. The court alleged that Khan misused his powers for personal gain, tarnishing the reputation of an administration that once promised to root out corruption.
Adding to the gravity of the case, Khan’s wife was also sentenced to seven years in prison. Prosecutor Muzaffar Abbasi argued that she played a supporting role in the misconduct, further implicating the couple in a scandal that has rocked the nation.
“This verdict reflects the seriousness of their actions and the misuse of public trust,” Abbasi stated.
Khan’s lawyer, Faisal Chaudhry, vehemently denied the allegations, describing the ruling as politically driven. “This is a clear attempt to silence a prominent opposition figure,” Chaudhry said, confirming plans to appeal the decision in Pakistan’s higher courts.
The sentencing has ignited fierce debates across Pakistan. For some, it represents a long-overdue reckoning for a leader who, they argue, failed to live up to his promises of accountability. For others, it’s a stark example of political vendettas overshadowing justice.
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Khan’s supporters, who remain deeply loyal to the former leader, have already begun staging protests, calling the ruling an attack on democracy. “This isn’t about justice. It’s about removing a leader who dared to challenge the status quo,” a spokesperson for Khan’s party said.
Imran Khan rose to political prominence in 2018, capturing the hopes of millions with his promises of reform and his vision of a “new Pakistan.” However, his tenure as prime minister was marked by economic struggles, policy missteps, and growing discontent among the public. His ousting in 2022 set off a series of legal and political battles that have kept him at the center of national attention.
The case against Khan has also raised broader concerns about judicial independence and the use of legal systems to target political opponents. Analysts warn that the fallout from this case could further deepen Pakistan’s already entrenched political divides.
