Imran Khan faces three year prison term and five year political ban

Imran Khan faces three year prison term and five year political ban

Imran Khan, the former Prime Minister of Pakistan, has been convicted and sentenced to three years in prison by a trial court in Islamabad for illegally selling state gifts.

The court also imposed a five-year ban on his participation in politics.

Khan, who served as Prime Minister from 2018 until his removal in 2022, was accused of incorrectly declaring the details of presents received from foreign dignitaries and proceeds from their alleged sale.

The gifts, which included valuable watches, a ring, and a pair of cufflinks, were worth over 140 million Pakistani rupees.

Following the court’s verdict, Khan was arrested at his residence in Lahore by the police.

His lawyer, Intezar Panjotha, has stated that they will appeal the judgment at a higher court, arguing that the charges are politically motivated.

Khan is currently facing over 100 cases in Pakistan since his ouster as Prime Minister in 2022, and he has consistently denied any wrongdoing.

His initial arrest in May led to violent protests across the country, resulting in several fatalities and numerous arrests.