Islamabad High Court Fines NAB in Imran Khan Graft Case
Islamabad, Pakistan – The Islamabad High Court (IHC) on Wednesday, March 11, 2026, imposed a fine of Rs100,000 on the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) for employing “delaying tactics” in the £190 million Al-Qadir Trust corruption case involving former Prime Minister Imran Khan and his wife, Bushra Bibi.1
Background of the Case
The case centers around allegations that in 2019, an amount equivalent to £190 million (Rs50 billion at the time) was adjusted after being returned to Pakistan by Britain’s National Crime Agency.3 The funds were reportedly linked to assets seized from a property tycoon during Imran Khan’s time as prime minister.
Court Proceedings and NAB’s Objections
A division bench consisting of IHC Chief Justice Sardar Muhammad Sarfraz Dogar and Justice Muhammad Asif heard petitions from Imran Khan and Bushra Bibi seeking the suspension of their sentences and appealing their convictions.2 Prior to the hearing, NAB raised a jurisdictional objection, arguing that the appeals were premature as they hadn’t been formally admitted for a regular hearing.1 NAB contended that the term “pending appeal” refers to appeals that have been admitted for hearing.
Court’s Rejection of NAB’s Arguments and the Fine
The IHC bench rejected NAB’s argument, expressing dissatisfaction with the bureau’s approach and accusing it of employing “delaying tactics.”2 the court imposed a fine of Rs100,000 on NAB.1
Defense Arguments and Concerns
Imran Khan’s counsel, Barrister Aitzaz Ahsan, highlighted difficulties in obtaining a power of attorney from the incarcerated former prime minister, stating he had limited access to his client for four months, a violation of constitutional provisions.2 Barrister Salman Safdar also noted that the appeals against the convictions were being scheduled for hearing after a 14-month gap.2
Sentencing
An accountability court in Islamabad sentenced Imran Khan and Bushra Bibi to 14 and seven years in prison, respectively, on January 17, 2025, in the £190m Al-Qadir Trust case.2
Next Steps
The IHC issued a notice on NAB’s application and adjourned the hearing, directing the anti-graft body to be prepared for the next date. The defense team urged for an early disposal of the petition before the upcoming Eid vacations.1
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