Pakistan’s former Prime Minister Imran Khan has raised serious concerns about the well-being of his wife and former First Lady, Bushra Bibi. During a hearing related to the Toshakhana corruption case, Imran Khan informed the court that Bushra Bibi had been allegedly poisoned while being held at their private residence, which had been turned into a sub-jail.
According to Imran Khan, Bushra Bibi exhibited symptoms of poisoning, including marks on her skin and tongue. He pointed fingers at unspecified individuals, expressing his belief that if any harm befell his wife, the responsibility should fall on the Pakistan Army chief due to alleged intelligence agency control over the facilities where she was detained.
Seeking transparency and accountability, Khan urged the court to order a medical examination of Bushra Bibi by a trusted physician. He also called for an inquiry into the alleged poisoning incident. In response, the court directed Khan to submit a detailed application regarding Bushra Bibi’s medical examination.
In a media statement following the hearing, Bushra Bibi addressed rumors circulating within the party, denying allegations of being an “American agent” and instead claiming that she was poisoned with a popular toilet cleaner. She described experiencing adverse health effects, including swelling eyes, chest discomfort, and bitter taste in food and water.
Bushra Bibi alleged that someone informed her about the toxic substance added to her food during her detention. Despite facing health challenges, she emphasized her reluctance to disclose names. The former First Lady also expressed dissatisfaction with the conditions of her confinement, stating that although she was treated decently, certain restrictions were imposed, such as limited access to open windows.
The Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party, to which Imran Khan belongs, voiced concerns over Bushra Bibi’s safety and accused authorities of endangering her life by denying her the right to a medical examination and restricting family visits. PTI asserted that such actions constituted a violation of constitutional rights and jail regulations.
Bushra Bibi’s imprisonment stems from her involvement in the Toshakhana corruption case, where she and Khan were sentenced to 14 years in jail for the illegal sale of state gifts. However, PTI maintained that her conviction was politically motivated and aimed at pressuring Khan.
The Chairman of PTI, Barrister Gohar Khan, condemned the alleged mistreatment of Bushra Bibi and warned of accountability for any harm caused to her. He emphasized that she was being politically victimized and highlighted concerns about her isolation and potential poisoning.
Since his ousting from power through a no-confidence motion in April 2022, Imran Khan has faced multiple legal challenges and convictions, including involvement in the cipher case.
