Islamabad, December 20, 2025 — A Pakistani special court on Saturday sentenced former Prime Minister Imran Khan and his wife, Bushra Bibi, to 17 years in prison each in a corruption case involving the alleged illegal purchase of luxury state gifts, court officials and Khan’s lawyers confirmed.
The verdict adds a new chapter to Khan’s prolonged legal troubles. He has been behind bars since August 2023 and is currently serving a separate 14-year sentence in a land corruption case. Since his removal from office in 2022, Khan has faced dozens of cases, including charges related to corruption, violations of anti-terrorism laws, and breaches of state secrecy. He has consistently denied all allegations, while his party claims the cases are politically motivated.
According to the ruling, the court handed down 10 years of rigorous imprisonment for criminal breach of trust under Pakistan’s penal code and an additional seven years under anti-corruption laws. The court also imposed fines on both Khan and Bushra Bibi. Information and Broadcasting Minister Ataullah Tarar said the new 17-year sentence would come into effect after Khan completes his ongoing 14-year term.
Khan’s family lawyer, Rana Mudassar Umar, alleged that the court delivered the verdict without allowing the defense to present its arguments. He said Khan has instructed his legal team to file an appeal with the Islamabad High Court.
The case centers on the alleged purchase of a luxury wristwatch gifted by Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. Prosecutors argue that after depositing the gift in the state-run Toshakhana—where officials must declare and submit gifts received during office—Khan and his wife violated regulations by buying it at a reduced price, causing financial losses to the state.
Reacting to the verdict, Khan’s close aide Zulfi Bukhari described the ruling as “contrary to the basic principles of justice,” alleging the legal process was being used as a tool against a targeted individual.
This case is one of several known as the Toshakhana cases. In August 2023, a separate Toshakhana conviction against Khan and Bushra Bibi was later suspended. Both have denied wrongdoing in all cases.
Following Saturday’s verdict, Khan’s party, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), announced protest programs across Punjab province. The party also claimed that authorities have recently restricted Khan’s family and legal visits despite court orders, an allegation officials have denied.
