Cabinet Division to hire private evaluators for one-year contracts to assess high-value state gifts; initiative follows years of controversy including high-profile cases involving former Prime Minister Imran Khan.
Government Calls for Private Appraisers
The federal government has launched a fresh initiative to assess the value of newly received gifts stored in the state-owned Toshakhana, a department responsible for maintaining and managing presents given to state officials by foreign dignitaries. The Cabinet Division announced that bids are now open for private evaluators to appraise items such as jewellery, luxury watches, carpets, and other high-value goods. Interested parties have until August 29, 2025, to submit their proposals via the government’s e-PADs system, with all bids to be opened the same day. Successful bidders will be awarded a one-year contract and will receive payment for each appraisal they carry out.
Rules for Disposal of Toshakhana Items
Under the existing rules, Toshakhana items are first offered for purchase to political officials, members of the civil and military bureaucracy, and judges of the higher judiciary. If these items remain unsold, they are later auctioned to the general public. The Cabinet Division maintains that accurate and fair market valuations are essential to ensure transparency in this process.
Backdrop of High-Profile Controversies
The government’s announcement comes against the backdrop of several high-profile controversies involving Toshakhana, most notably the cases against former Prime Minister Imran Khan and his spouse, Bushra Bibi. In 2022, the Election Commission of Pakistan accused Khan of failing to disclose valuable gifts and the proceeds from their sale, resulting in his disqualification on October 21, 2022.
Legal Proceedings Against Imran Khan
In December 2023, the National Accountability Bureau filed a reference alleging that Khan and Bushra Bibi retained a Bulgari jewellery set from the Saudi crown prince at a price far below market value. The following month, a court sentenced them to 14 years in prison and imposed heavy fines for unlawful possession and sale of state gifts. This sentence was later suspended on appeal, but it intensified political debate.
Toshakhana II and Further Allegations
Late 2024 saw the emergence of “Toshakhana II,” a case involving 108 gifts allegedly received during Khan’s premiership, including luxury watches, jewellery, and other expensive items. Critics argued that these practices damaged public trust in state institutions, while Khan’s supporters claimed the cases were politically motivated. The United Nations Working Group on Arbitrary Detention later suggested that the prosecutions, including Toshakhana-related charges, were aimed at sidelining Khan politically.
Push for Transparency
Officials say that hiring independent evaluators will not only ensure fair pricing of gifts but also help restore public confidence in Toshakhana’s operations. Whether this move will erase years of mistrust remains to be seen, but it represents a significant change in the state’s approach to managing official gifts.