Former prime minister Imran Khan’s governance has come under scrutiny following a detailed report by The Economist highlighting the influence of his wife, Bushra Bibi, on political appointments and daily government decisions.

The Economist’s investigative report revealed that Bushra Bibi allegedly attempted to influence critical government appointments and day-to-day policy decisions.

Sources close to the former prime minister suggested that “spiritual consultation” often dominated Khan’s decision-making process.

Observers cited in the report claimed that some members of intelligence agencies passed information to Bushra Bibi, which she then presented to Imran Khan as insights from her spiritual practices.

Marriage and claims of political power

The report noted that Imran Khan surprised the nation by marrying his spiritual advisor, Bushra Bibi. She reportedly advised him that if he married her, he would eventually become prime minister. Despite public statements limiting her role to spiritual guidance, insiders claimed her influence extended deeply into government operations.

A former colleague alleged that Bushra Bibi practiced black magic and used employees to procure black animals and other materials for rituals tied to her operations. Her decisions were reportedly considered final in state affairs, and even the former prime minister’s official engagements, including flights, were said to require her approval.

Impact on Imran Khan’s political agenda

According to The Economist, Bushra Bibi’s spiritual influence hindered Imran Khan from implementing his announced reform agenda. At her behest, Khan reportedly distanced himself from loyal colleagues and employees, further affecting governance. She was also present in key meetings with military officials and government ministers, contributing to concerns over the blending of spiritual guidance with state matters.

The report also highlighted instances where Khan allegedly removed senior officials, such as the then DG ISI, after disputes connected to Bushra Bibi’s alleged influence. Critics argue that reliance on superstition and spiritual advisors overshadowed the former prime minister’s political strategies and reform efforts.

Bushra Bibi’s sister, Maryam, claimed both sisters studied at Queen Mary College. However, The Economist found no records confirming this, raising further questions about personal narratives associated with the former prime minister’s inner circle.