On October 23, 2023, a special court in Pakistan indicted former Prime Minister Imran Khan and former Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi for violating the Official Secrets Act by allegedly leaking a diplomatic cable. The cable, which Khan waved at a public rally in March 2022, purportedly contained a threat from the United States to oust Khan from power.
The indictment is a significant development in the case, as it means that Khan and Qureshi will now stand trial for the charges against them. If convicted, they could face up to 14 years in prison.
What is the indictment?
The indictment alleges that Khan and Qureshi conspired to "wrongfully communicate/use official secret information" and "illegally retain cipher telegram (official secret document) with mala fide intention." The charge sheet also states that Khan "misused the contents of the cipher" at a meeting in his Bani Gala residence on March 28, 2022.
What will happen next?
The next step in the case is for the trial to begin. The court will hear from witnesses and examine evidence presented by the prosecution and defense. If Khan and Qureshi are convicted, they could be sentenced to prison and/or fined.
The case is likely to be closely watched by both Khan's supporters and his detractors. Khan has repeatedly claimed that he was ousted from power through a foreign conspiracy, and the outcome of this case could have a significant impact on his political future.
Implications of the indictment
The indictment of Khan and Qureshi is a major setback for Khan's Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party. The PTI has been campaigning for early elections, and Khan has been blaming the current government for the country's economic woes. However, the indictment could damage Khan's credibility and make it more difficult for him to mobilize his supporters.
The case could also have implications for Pakistan's ties with the United States. The US has denied any involvement in Khan's ouster, but the fact that the case is going to trial could further strain relations between the two countries.
It is important to note that Khan and Qureshi are presumed innocent until proven guilty. However, the indictment is a serious development that could have a significant impact on Pakistan's political landscape