Who delayed the verdict in the £190 million case today?

ISLAMABAD: All was set for the announcement of the verdict in the £190 million case today; however, it was postponed for the third time, with the judge and the defence shifting blame onto each other for the delay.

The verdict was scheduled to be announced today at 11:00 am.

Accountability Court Judge Nasir Javed expressed disappointment over the absence of the accused, noting that he had been present in the courtroom since 8:30 am, which ultimately led to the postponement of the verdict.

“I have been sitting here for two hours, but none of them showed up,” the judge remarked to reporters in the courtroom, adding, “Let’s give them another chance.”

The National Accountability Bureau’s (NAB) prosecution team, media, and court staff were present, but no one from the defence attended.

The verdict was initially scheduled for 11:00 am, but the judge delayed the announcement beforehand. Reporters noted that involved parties usually arrive early, but the absence of the accused disrupted proceedings.

Imran Khan, Bushra Bibi verdict in £190 million case postponed

Talking to media outside the courtroom, PTI chairman Barrister Gohar said we were informed by the court staff that the verdict will be announced today, and we were well prepared for that.

“The case is baseless and its only purpose is to pressurise the PTI founder,” he said.

He stated that the judge postponed the verdict on his own accord. “We, including Bushra Bibi, had arrived on time,” Barrister Gohar added.

Regarding the absence of Imran Khan from the court proceedings, he said it is the responsibility of the jail authorities to present the accused before the court.

“We can clearly see the writing on the wall. This case will end like all other cases ended”, he said.

Salman Akram Raja negating the impression of any deal, said that no deal is being made.

“We are holding talks with the government for the sake of democracy,” he said.