Former Prime Minister Imran Khan, currently incarcerated in Islamabad, expressed concerns on Tuesday about his wife and former First Lady, Bushra Bibi, alleging that she was poisoned while being held in his private residence, now converted into a sub-jail. Khan stressed that if any harm comes to his wife, the responsibility should fall on the army chief.
Speaking during a hearing related to the Toshakhana corruption case, Khan informed Judge Nasir Javed Rana of an attempt to poison Bushra Bibi. He noted physical marks on her skin and tongue, indicative of poisoning. Khan stated his awareness of the perpetrators behind this act.
He emphasized that the control of his residence in Bani Gala, Islamabad, and Adiala jail in Rawalpindi lies with members of an intelligence agency. Khan urged for Bushra Bibi‘s medical examination by Dr. Asim from Shaukat Khanum Hospital, expressing distrust towards the previous examining doctor. He also called for an inquiry into the alleged poisoning incident.
Following Khan‘s plea, the court requested a detailed application concerning Bushra Bibi‘s medical examination.
Bushra Bibi, addressing the media after the hearing, dismissed rumors of being an “American agent” and claimed she was poisoned using a popular toilet cleaner. She detailed symptoms indicating poisoning and stated her intention not to disclose the source.
Bushra Bibi mentioned decent treatment at the Bani Gala sub-jail but complained about restricted access to open windows.
Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf voiced concerns over Bushra Bibi‘s well-being during her detention, alleging she was fed poisonous food. They criticized the denial of her constitutional right to medical examination and barred family visits, considering it a violation of constitutional and jail regulations.
In the Toshakhana corruption case, Imran Khan and Bushra Bibi were previously given 14-year prison terms.
Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf maintained Bushra Bibi‘s innocence, attributing her conviction to political pressure on Khan.
Chairman of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf, Barrister Gohar Khan, condemned Bushra Bibi‘s isolation and expressed fears of political victimization and poisoning. He warned of holding powerful circles accountable for any misadventure.
Following his removal via a motion of no confidence in April 2022, Imran Khan has been found guilty in a number of crimes, including the cipher case.