Khan’s legal troubles have been ongoing since his ouster in 2022, with more than 150 lawsuits filed against him. Despite the recent bail granted in a graft case involving a piece of land gifted to him by business tycoon Malik Riaz, Khan remains in prison due to other pending cases. The prosecution had accused Khan of allowing Riaz access to laundered money repatriated from the UK to pay fines instead of depositing the funds in a state-owned account. Khan, who has consistently denied all charges against him, has labeled his removal from office as a conspiracy by his rivals.
The government in Pakistan has cracked down heavily on Khan’s supporters and party since his arrest, leading to violent demonstrations last year. With numerous cases pending against him, Khan’s bail in one particular case does not lead to his immediate release from prison. The decision to grant him bail comes amidst ongoing political turmoil in Pakistan, with Khan’s party continuing to push for his release and proclaiming his innocence. The former prime minister’s popularity remains high, despite his legal troubles, and his party has vowed to continue the fight for his freedom.
Zulfiqar Bukhari, chief spokesperson for Khan’s Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf party, expressed satisfaction with the court’s decision to grant bail in the graft case. However, he also noted that Khan cannot be released due to other pending cases with bail applications still under consideration. Khan’s defense team has been working diligently to address the various charges brought against him, while maintaining his innocence. The political landscape in Pakistan remains tense, with Khan’s imprisonment fueling further unrest and calls for his release among his supporters.
The allegations against Khan, including accepting gifts and favors from business figures, have raised concerns about corruption in Pakistan’s political system. The former prime minister’s assertion that his removal from office was orchestrated by his rivals has added to the complex and contentious nature of his legal battles. Despite the challenges he faces, Khan and his party remain determined to clear his name and fight against what they perceive as a politically motivated campaign to discredit him. The outcome of his legal battles will likely have significant implications for the future of Pakistani politics and governance.
