RAWALPINDI: An arrest warrant has been issued for Bushra Bibi, wife of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan, due to her repeated absence from hearings in the Toshakhana case.
The proceedings, held at Rawalpindi’s Adiala Jail and presided over by Special Judge (Central) Shahrukh Arjumand, highlighted concerns about her failure to comply with legal requirements. The court has also summoned her guarantor, demanding an explanation as to why their surety bonds should not be forfeited for her non-appearance.
“Why should your surety bonds not be seized?” the judge asked, as the court adjourned the hearing until December 9.
Previously, the prosecutor had called for non-bailable warrants, accusing Bushra Bibi of deliberately avoiding court proceedings. The indictment of Bushra and her husband was delayed due to her absence.
Toshakhana Case Details
In its reference, the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) accused Imran Khan and Bushra Bibi of failing to deposit a high-value jewelry set in the Toshakhana as required. The set, reportedly priced at €300,000 for the necklace and €80,000 for the earrings, was purchased on May 25, 2018. As of May 28, 2021, the jewelry’s estimated value was Rs70.56 million, with the necklace alone valued at Rs50.64 million.
Under Toshakhana rules, the couple was obligated to pay 50% of the jewelry’s assessed value, approximately Rs35.28 million. According to NAB, this obligation was not met, violating the NAB Ordinance. The investigation into the former first couple began on the orders of the NAB chairman in August 2022.
The reference also accused Imran Khan of retaining 58 out of 108 gifts received during his tenure as prime minister, a move described as an abuse of power.
Legal and Political Implications
Bushra Bibi, who had secured bail in October after months in jail, was actively leading PTI protests in November. Meanwhile, Imran Khan, though granted bail in the Toshakhana case, remains in custody due to other ongoing legal matters.
The case continues to draw attention as the next hearing approaches, with questions surrounding the couple’s compliance with accountability laws.
