Imran Khan, the former Prime Minister of Pakistan, has been sentenced to 14 years in jail in the Al-Qadir Trust case, while his wife, Bushra Bibi, faces seven years. Amidst these legal troubles, another scandal involving a priceless Graff diamond watch has emerged, becoming a key talking point. This watch, which was a symbol of the relationship between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia, has come to symbolize the downfall of Imran Khan’s career.
The Graff Watch Controversy
The Graff watch in question was gifted to Imran Khan by Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (MBS) during Khan’s tenure as Pakistan's Prime Minister. It was part of a special gift hamper that included a ring, cufflinks, a pen, and this one-of-a-kind diamond watch. Made by the prestigious House of Graff, the watch was an exclusive creation that took five years and the expertise of 30 diamond experts to craft. The watch, worth $55 million, featured 110 fancy diamonds, with its design representing Khan-e-Kaaba—a motif that held deep significance in the Islamic world.
The Watch's Unique Significance
This wasn't just any expensive watch—it was an unprecedented gift that highlighted the strong relations between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia. The watch was a symbol of goodwill and diplomatic ties, and its value was not merely monetary but also symbolic. The Khan-e-Kaaba motif on the watch was irreplaceable and could not be sold without risking significant diplomatic fallout.
The Sale and the Backlash
Despite its immense value and sentimental significance, Imran Khan decided to sell the Graff watch. Reports suggest that Khan sold the watch to Dubai businessman Umar Farooq Zahoor through a middleman named Farah Gogi, a close associate of Bushra Bibi. Zahoor, an avid collector of rare watches, purchased the watch for $12 million, though its actual worth was much higher.
As soon as Zahoor made the purchase, he proudly announced his ownership of the one-of-a-kind watch, further drawing attention to the controversial sale. This act sparked a firestorm of criticism, particularly from Saudi Arabia, where the sale of such a prestigious gift was seen as a betrayal of diplomatic ties. Crown Prince MBS himself was reportedly furious, and in Pakistan, Imran Khan became the subject of ridicule on social media.
Toshakhana Rules and Violations
In Pakistan, government officials are required to deposit gifts received from foreign dignitaries in a department known as Toshakhana (Treasury). The rule stipulates that these gifts can only be kept if the recipient pays a portion of their value. However, Khan did not follow these rules, opting instead to sell the Graff watch and other gifts, much to the dismay of the Saudi royal family and the public. This violation of Toshakhana's rules was a key factor in the growing anger and backlash against Khan, especially as the gifts were not just valuable but also deeply symbolic of the relationship between the two countries.
The Consequences of the Sale
The sale of the Graff watch played a significant role in Imran Khan’s legal troubles and his eventual downfall. His greed for profit led him to lose the goodwill of Saudi Arabia, and by extension, damaged his political image. The Toshakhana case became one of the focal points of his corruption charges, leading to his imprisonment and a sharp decline in his public standing.
Graff’s Reputation
Founded in 1962, Graff Diamonds is renowned for creating high-end jewelry and watches, often owned by some of the world’s wealthiest individuals. Graff’s creations are prized for their craftsmanship and the rare gems used in their designs. This particular watch, crafted for the Saudi Crown Prince, represented not just wealth but the deep ties between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia. Its sale and the subsequent scandal damaged the reputations of those involved, particularly Imran Khan and his associates.
Conclusion
The saga of Imran Khan and the Graff watch is a cautionary tale about the value of relationships, honesty, and the consequences of greed. The sale of a priceless gift given to him in the spirit of international diplomacy has had far-reaching implications, not only for his political career but also for Pakistan's relationship with Saudi Arabia. Khan’s actions, fueled by a desire for personal gain, have led to a series of legal and diplomatic issues that continue to affect his life and legacy.
