ISLAMABAD: An accountability court in Rawalpindi formally charged Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan and his wife Bushra Bibi in a reference involving £190 million.
The hearing, presided over by Accountability Court Judge Nasir Javed Rana at Adiala Jail, where Khan is detained for Toshakhana, cipher, and illegal marriage cases, saw the indictment.
The charge sheet was read out in the courtroom with Khan and Bushra present. National Accountability Bureau (NAB) Deputy Prosecutor Sardar Muzaffar Abbasi and his team also attended.
NAB initiated an investigation against Khan, his wife, and others over alleged acquisition of vast land under Al Qadir University Trust, causing a reported loss of £190 million to the exchequer.
During the hearing, the court announced the intention to record statements of 58 witnesses. Khan was asked about his plea, to which he responded, expressing familiarity with the charges.
Both Khan and his wife pleaded not guilty. Khan emphasized the need for a swift trial, indicating a change in pace post-February 8.
Upon discussion of Khan’s health concerns, the court granted his request for a general physician and dentist examination.
PTI’s counsel highlighted the importance of receiving reference copies seven days prior to indictment, filing a petition accordingly.
NAB assured the provision of witness statements to Khan and Bushra’s legal team. The hearing adjourned until March 6, with orders for five NAB witnesses to appear.
(Islamabad51_Newsdesk)
