ISLAMABAD — The Islamabad High Court on Tuesday adjourned the hearing of suspension of sentence applications filed by Imran Khan and his wife, Bushra Bibi, in the £190 million graft case.
The adjournment came after the defence counsel requested more time to obtain fresh instructions from his clients. The division bench was headed by Chief Justice Sardar Muhammad Sarfraz Dogar and included Justice Muhammad Asif.
During the proceedings, defence lawyer Salman Safdar appeared alongside NAB special prosecutor Javed Ashraf and prosecutor Rafay Maqsood. The hearing was also attended by Imran Khan’s sisters Aleema Khanum, Uzma Khan, and Noreen Niazi.
NAB argued that the suspension pleas could not be heard without notice in the main appeals, especially after recent amendments to the NAB law.
Read more: Imran, Bushra move IHC to suspend Toshakhana-2 sentences
Barrister Safdar countered that his clients were convicted on January 17, 2025, and despite over a year passing, the prosecution repeatedly sought adjournments. He pressed for suspension of sentence and bail, citing medical grounds, but said he had not been able to meet his clients for five months, making it difficult to proceed with arguments on the appeals.
The bench questioned whether the defence could proceed on the main appeals and suggested allocating two hearing days per week. Safdar reiterated that he could not advance arguments without consulting his clients.
NAB questioned the reluctance, noting that while bail matters are brief, appeals require detailed arguments. After hearing both sides, the court adjourned proceedings until April 6, granting the defence time to consult their clients.
Read more: Imran, Bushra seek Toshakhana-2 suspension
The £190 million Al-Qadir Trust case previously sentenced Imran Khan to 14 years and Bushra Bibi to seven years in prison. The case alleges the couple obtained billions in cash and land from Bahria Town Ltd to legalize funds repatriated from the UK during the PTI government.
Imran has been imprisoned since August 5, 2023, and also faces other convictions and pending trials under the Anti-Terrorism Act related to May 9, 2023, riots.