Pakistan’s former Prime Minister Imran Khan and his political party, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), have announced plans to take legal action against The Economist, alleging defamation over a recent article. The story examined the role of Khan’s third wife, Bushra Bibi, during his premiership from 2018 to 2022, claiming she influenced political decisions, cabinet appointments, and national security matters.
The article suggested that Pakistan’s intelligence agency provided her with information, which she allegedly relayed to Khan as spiritual insight. It also explored her life prior to marrying Khan and her work as a spiritual guide.
PTI rejected the claims, describing them as biased, misleading, and part of a campaign to damage Khan and Bushra Bibi’s reputations. Party leaders criticized the story for relying on anonymous sources and ignoring key issues in Pakistan, such as economic challenges and human rights concerns.
Demanding a public apology, PTI has reserved the right to pursue a defamation lawsuit in the UK. The article’s co-author defended the reporting, stating it followed a year-long verification process and is ready to face legal scrutiny if challenged. The controversy has sparked a wider debate in Pakistan over media, politics, and influence in government affairs.
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