Islamabad, Dec 21 (V7N) – Former Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan has called for nationwide protests in response to the verdict in the second Toshakhana case, following his conviction and sentencing by a court on Saturday.

The call for protests was conveyed through Imran Khan’s lawyer, who also announced that an appeal will be filed with the High Court challenging the verdict. The information was reported by Pakistan’s leading daily Dawn News.

A message posted on social media platform X by Khan’s legal team urged supporters to take to the streets in protest. In addition, Imran Khan sent a message to Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi, calling on him to mobilize support. Khan also appealed to the entire nation to rise and demand their rights.

Details of the Case

The case centers on the alleged illegal purchase of a luxury jewelry set from Italian brand Bulgari. On Saturday, the court sentenced Imran Khan and his wife, Bushra Bibi, to a combined 17 years in prison and imposed a fine of Rs 1.64 crore on charges of fraud related to state gifts.

According to case records, during an official visit to Saudi Arabia in May 2021, Imran Khan received the Bulgari jewelry set as a gift from Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman while serving as Prime Minister. The prosecution alleged that Khan later retained the gift by paying a nominal amount, in violation of Toshakhana rules.

The verdict has further intensified political tensions in Pakistan, with opposition supporters alleging political motivation behind the case.

END/SMA/AJ