Punjab Information Minister Azma Bukhari on Saturday stated that the recent verdict in the £190 million corruption case has dismantled the claims of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Founder Imran Khan's honesty and trustworthiness.
Addressing a press conference on Friday, Bukhari criticized the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leadership, accusing them of hypocrisy and a lack of accountability.
She said the case, which was repeatedly delayed, underwent extensive hearings as the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) lawyer attended 35 cross-examination sessions.
"The case was postponed several times, yet we kept insisting that it be decided. Why is there now an outcry from the PTI camp?" she questioned.
Referring to PTI's own ministers as witnesses, Bukhari alleged that the £190 million scandal stemmed from a controversial deal approved in a mere three-and-a-half minutes during a cabinet meeting. She claimed that sealed envelopes were handed out for approval without any discussion.
"The very ministers who were part of the cabinet admitted that the approval process was a sham. Their testimony highlights the dubious nature of the deal," she said.
"Farah Gogi and Shahzad Akbar played a central role in this deal. Even additional land was registered in Gogi's name as part of this arrangement," she alleged.
Comparison with NCA case
Drawing comparisons, Bukhari highlighted that Hussain Nawaz and Hassan Nawaz, sons of former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, were cleared of charges by the UK’s National Crime Agency (NCA).
"Unlike them, the PTI's claims of innocence fall flat when weighed against concrete evidence," she remarked.
Bukhari also raised concerns about allegations from PTI leaders regarding judicial bias.
"Imran Khan claims the higher courts will disregard evidence and grant him relief. Such statements undermine the credibility of the judiciary, which must take notice of these baseless accusations," she asserted.
The minister said the government would ensure accountability for those involved in the scandal. "Shahzad Akbar promised to bring back culprits. Now it is his turn to face justice. Efforts will be made to bring all accused to trial," she vowed.
