In a landmark development, Imran Khan, the Chairman of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), and former Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi have been handed 10-year prison sentences each in the Cipher case. The verdict was delivered by Special Court Judge Abul Hassanat Zulqarnain after recording Imran Khan’s statement under Section 342 in the courtroom.
According to reliable sources, the sentencing led to a hearing at Adiala Jail in Islamabad/Rawalpindi, where Prosecutor Zulfiqar Naqvi and his team, along with State Council lawyers, were present. Notably, Imran Khan’s sisters and Shah Mahmood Qureshi’s family were also in attendance during this critical phase of the legal proceedings.
During the hearing, Judge Abul Hassanat Zulqarnain directed both Imran Khan and Shah Mahmood Qureshi to approach the rostrum. Imran Khan, upon reaching the rostrum, was interrogated by the judge regarding signing the statement under Section 342. Responding to the judge, Imran Khan stated, “I’m coming soon; we have to stay in jail anyway.” Further discussion ensued when the judge asked, “Will you sign the statement under Section 342?” to which Imran Khan sought clarification, saying, “Tell me first what it is about.”
Judge Abul Hassanat Zulqarnain, maintaining adherence to the law, provided Imran Khan with the opportunity to answer questions. Emphasizing that Khan could write his own response, the judge encouraged him to address the court. Imran Khan expressed his intent, stating, “Yes, I want to tell the court something.”
The court, inquiring about the statement, was informed by Imran Khan that it was not with him but in his office. He clarified that the responsibility for security in his office lay not only with him but also with the military secretary and principal secretary.
Following this revelation, Imran Khan left the rostrum, and the court summoned Shah Mahmood Qureshi. Both leaders were swiftly sentenced to 10 years in prison on the rostrum. Subsequently, no further proceedings transpired as the special court judge concluded by delivering a succinct verdict before leaving the courtroom. The sentencing marks a significant development in the ongoing legal saga involving high-profile political figures. Stay tuned for further updates.
