Former Prime Minister Imran Khan Arrested on Corruption Charges and Sentenced to Three Years in Jail
Former Prime Minister Imran Khan has been arrested and sentenced to three years in jail on corruption charges. Khan, who is the country’s leading opposition figure, was ousted in a no-confidence vote earlier this year. The court found him guilty of concealing assets after selling state gifts.
Police swiftly took Khan into custody from his home in Lahore and transferred him to a high-security prison in Islamabad. Critics argue that Khan’s arrest is politically motivated, especially as general elections are scheduled for later this year. Khan’s popularity and ability to mobilize large crowds pose a threat to the ruling coalition and its backers in the powerful military.
This is the second time Khan has been detained this year, joining other former prime ministers who have faced arrests and military interventions over the years. The prison sentence could prohibit Khan from participating in politics under a law that bars those with criminal convictions from holding or running for public office. Khan’s party, PTI, plans to challenge the decision.
Information Minister Maryam Aurangzeb denies that Khan’s arrest is connected to the upcoming elections and claims he had ample opportunity to defend himself against the charges. PTI spokesman Rauf Hasan describes the trial as the “worst in history” and a “murder of justice.” Khan released a video message from his Lahore home, urging his supporters to peacefully protest and fight for their rights.
Pro-Khan lawyers protested his conviction and arrest outside his residence, while supporters of a rival political party celebrated the detention. Khan has been transferred to a high-security prison known for its harsh conditions, housing convicted militants and those awaiting trial.
Khan is the seventh former prime minister to be arrested in Pakistan, with Zulfikar Ali Bhutto being hanged in 1979 and Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif being arrested multiple times on corruption allegations.
Overall, Khan’s arrest raises concerns about the state of democracy and the rule of law in Pakistan. With the upcoming elections and the ongoing crackdown on opposition figures, the political climate remains tense. Observers will closely watch how Khan’s party and his supporters respond to his arrest and whether it will further fuel political unrest in the country.
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