Ata Tarar slams PTI for playing ‘religion card’ after £190 million case verdict

The defense counsel argued a £190 million case on "political grounds" and did not present any evidence to counter the prosecution's claims, stated Information Minister Attaullah Tarar on Friday.

He described the £190 million scam as the largest corruption case in Pakistan's history during a press conference in Islamabad, following the court's sentencing of former Prime Minister Imran Khan and his wife, Bushra Bibi.

Accompanying him was Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar.

The minister noted that the judge's ruling indicated that the defense counsel "failed to provide evidence to establish the innocence of the accused."

He further remarked that the defense team was unable to address the prosecution's evidence regarding bribery, corruption, and the abuse of power.

Tarar expressed concern that the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party had a tendency to invoke religious sentiments, attempting to "conceal themselves" behind religion in this case.

He alleged that the Al-Qadir Trust was established to launder illicit funds obtained through corruption and bribery.

The minister mentioned that while the PTI has the right to appeal, they must demonstrate that no sealed envelope was presented at the cabinet meeting and that the agenda item was not approved.

"The defense counsel must prove that no property was constructed in Lahore with those funds. It is ironic that the money seized by the NCA and returned to the Pakistani government was given back to the individual from whom it was originally taken," he stated.

"This case has been clear from the outset. The evidence of corruption, bribery, and misuse of authority is well established," Tarar asserted, adding that the sentence was delivered while adhering to legal protocols.

He claimed that the judgment was based on merit and that the accused had not succeeded in proving their "innocence."

According to him, legal experts and analysts have praised the verdict, affirming that it aligns with the law.