Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Chairman Barrister Gohar Khan announced plans for legal action following a report on Bushra Bibi’s alleged influence during Imran Khan’s tenure as prime minister. He labelled the publication “provocative and based on lies,” stating it aimed to defame both the PTI founder and his spouse.
PTI Leaders Defend Former First Lady
Barrister Gohar Khan stressed that previous allegations, including those related to Iddat, were proven false. He said the report “would not break Bushra Bibi.” He further condemned the timing, saying, “At a time when she is in jail, we condemn the publication of such articles.”
PTI’s Barrister Mohammad Ali Saif echoed this defense. Speaking in Peshawar, he described a “deliberate and organised campaign” targeting Bushra Bibi’s reputation. He noted her “remarkable resilience” despite “unlawful imprisonment” and claimed that false accusations were politically motivated to gain advantage against the former ruling party.
PML-N Leaders Criticize Bushra Bibi’s Role
On the other hand, PML-N leaders Attaullah Tarar and Talal Chaudhry criticized the PTI founder and his wife. Tarar claimed that Imran Khan “cloaked his decisions in spirituality,” and alleged that “all major economic and political decisions were taken by his wife.” He also accused the PTI of a history of false allegations.
Similarly, Minister of State for Interior Talal Chaudhry accused Bushra Bibi of controlling key decisions during Khan’s tenure. He alleged that appointments of provincial and senior officials were influenced through “magical practices.” Chaudhry referred to the so-called “Gogi–Pinky nexus,” alleging personal gains and financial irregularities linked to the former prime minister’s family. He said Bushra Bibi was involved in “controlling decisions in exchange for favours,” calling it widespread corruption.
Details from The Report
The report revisited Bushra Bibi’s role during Imran Khan’s premiership. It detailed her relationship with Khan, spiritual consultations, and the circumstances of her divorce and marriage to him in 2018. The publication included accounts from family members, former staff, and political associates, claiming she exercised influence over political and personal decisions.
Additionally, the report mentioned that intelligence officials allegedly communicated information to Khan through her spiritual advisers. Former cabinet members reportedly described her as having a prominent role in government discussions.
With both Khan and Bushra Bibi in prison on corruption charges, speculation continues within PTI regarding her potential influence on Khan’s decisions and possible political compromises. The report noted divided opinions among party members, with some urging Khan to remain firm and others suggesting Bushra Bibi may advocate a negotiated path forward.
