US Responds To Imran Khan’s Verdict In Cipher Case

The United States State Department opted not to provide extensive commentary on the 10-year sentence imposed on Imran Khan, the founder of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), in the cipher case.

During the daily press briefing on Tuesday, department spokesperson Matthew Miller asserted that the sentencing was a legal matter primarily within the jurisdiction of Pakistani courts. Miller stated, “It’s a matter for the Pakistani courts,” emphasizing that the legal issue surrounding Imran Khan’s sentencing falls under the purview of the Pakistani judicial system.

Read more: 10-Year Sentence For Imran Khan, Shah Mahmood In Cipher Case

“We have been monitoring the cases brought against the former prime minister, but we do not have any comments on the sentencing,” Miller remarked.

Both Imran Khan and PTI leader Shah Mahmood Qureshi were handed 10-year sentences in the cipher case. The case revolves around allegations that Khan disclosed the contents of a secret cable sent by the country’s ambassador in Washington to the government in Islamabad.

This marks the second conviction for Imran Khan in recent months. Previously, he received a three-year sentence in a corruption case, leading to his disqualification from the upcoming general elections.

Miller reiterated that the prosecution of the former prime minister is a legal matter, and the State Department would defer to Pakistani courts on such issues. He emphasized the importance of a democratic process that allows broad participation for all parties while upholding democratic principles.