The hearing of the Toshakhana reference against Imran Khan, founder of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), and his wife Bushra Bibi was adjourned on Tuesday after presiding Judge Muhammad Bashir fell ill and was hospitalized. The case will resume on [date of next hearing].
During the proceedings, Bushra Bibi's statement was recorded under Section 342 of the Criminal Procedure Code, but Khan's statement was deferred to the next hearing. The defense team also plans to present their witness list at that time.
Tensions flared when Imran Khan addressed the judge, expressing frustration at the missed opportunity to cross-examine witnesses. "Our right to defend ourselves has been curtailed," he stated. "I was prepared to question the witnesses about the actual price of the gifts, something crucial for my defense. This opportunity has been denied." He further declared, "I am capable of defending myself. Am I expected to receive the verdict today itself?"
Khan also raised concerns about alleged discrepancies in information provided by the Prime Minister's House military secretary. "There have been instances of blatant lies," he asserted.
Furthermore, the PTI founder accused the military secretary of the Prime Minister's House of falsehood, adding a layer of complexity to the ongoing legal proceedings.
The adjournment due to the judge's health is unexpected, adding another layer to the already complex and highly publicized Toshakhana case.
