In a significant development, an anti-corruption court in Pakistan on Tuesday cleared Bushra Bibi, the wife of former Prime Minister Imran Khan, of all charges in 12 cases linked to the violent riots that erupted on May 9 last year. The riots followed the arrest of Khan in Islamabad on corruption charges, leading to widespread unrest across the country.
Court’s Decision at Adiala Jail
The hearing was presided over by Anti-Terrorism Court Judge Malik Ejaz Asif at Adiala Jail in Rawalpindi, where Bushra Bibi is currently detained alongside her husband. During the proceedings, the police sought the physical remand of Bibi to further investigate her alleged involvement in the riots, which included an attack on the General Headquarters (GHQ).
However, after a detailed review of the police’s request and the arguments presented by both sides, the court rejected the plea for physical remand. The judge ultimately decided to discharge Bibi from all 12 cases. According to her lawyer, Salman Safdar, the accusations against her were based on statements that lacked legal substance. “The court thoroughly reviewed the arguments from both sides before delivering its decision,” Safdar said, addressing the media outside the jail.
Implications for Imran Khan
The court’s decision to clear Bushra Bibi is seen as a major relief for the former first couple, especially as Imran Khan, who has been imprisoned for over a year, faces more than 200 cases himself. Safdar suggested that this ruling could positively impact Khan’s own legal battles, as he was also named in the same cases alongside hundreds of his party workers from Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI).
Khan, 71, has been convicted in several cases, leading to his ongoing detention at Adiala Jail. Despite securing bail or having convictions overturned in some instances, he remains behind bars. His wife, 49-year-old Bushra Bibi, had also been held in connection with these cases but has now been cleared of all charges.
Broader Context
The May 9 riots were a significant moment in Pakistan’s political landscape, marked by widespread violence and demonstrations. The events were triggered by Khan’s arrest, which led to clashes between his supporters and the authorities. The decision to discharge Bushra Bibi from these cases might influence the legal strategies and outcomes for Khan and other PTI members.
This ruling marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing legal battles faced by the former prime minister and his wife, as they continue to navigate the complex and often tumultuous political environment in Pakistan.