Legal experts are torn on the recent verdict from an accountability court that found former prime minister Imran Khan and his wife, Bushra Bibi, guilty in a £190 million case. The decision has sparked a heated debate among experts, with differing opinions on the outcome and the fairness of the trial.
Former Additional Attorney General’s Critique
Former additional attorney general Tariq Mahmood Khokhar criticized the trial, arguing that the court lacked independence, competence, and impartiality. He highlighted that the verdict violated Article 10A of the Constitution and Article 14 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR). Khokhar went as far as to say that the trial was null and void from the beginning due to unfair adjudicative procedures. He raised concerns about the accountability court judge, Nasir Javed Rana, and questioned the fairness of the trial process.
Defense Attorney’s Perspective
On the other hand, Abdul Moiz Jaferii Advocate presented a contrasting view, suggesting that there was a solid case of misuse of authority that Imran Khan needed to address. Jaferii emphasized that Imran Khan’s defense relied heavily on his reputation as a cricket star and his philanthropic history. He pointed out that returning money received from the National Crime Agency (NCA) in the UK did not absolve Imran Khan of legal violations and misrepresentations.
Legal Ramifications and Appeals
Hafiz Ehsaan Ahmad Advocate shed light on the legal consequences of the verdict, stating that Imran Khan and his wife were convicted under Section 10 of the National Accountability Ordinance. Additionally, the property acquired through the transaction was seized, and Imran Khan was disqualified from holding any public office for ten years. Ahmad noted that the accused had the right to challenge the sentence before a division bench of the Islamabad High Court within 30 days.
In conclusion, the conflicting opinions of legal experts underscore the complexity and controversy surrounding the £190 million case involving former prime minister Imran Khan. The implications of the verdict and the subsequent legal proceedings are likely to have far-reaching consequences on Pakistan’s political landscape and the accountability of public officials in the country.
