Dawood Ahmed:
Islamabad — In the ongoing Toshakhana case, Pakistan’s National Accountability Bureau (NAB) has approached the Islamabad High Court with a request to annul the convictions of former Prime Minister Imran Khan and his wife, Bushra Bibi, and to remand the case for further review.
During Thursday’s hearing, NAB prosecutor Amjad Pervez conveyed dissatisfaction with the trial process and acknowledged that he had previously requested a suspension of the sentences. The proceedings were overseen by Chief Justice Aamer Farooq and Justice Mian Gul Hasan Aurangzeb, who reviewed appeals against the sentences.
Barrister Ali Zafar, representing Khan and Bushra Bibi, sought an exemption from in-person appearances for his clients. Justice Farooq assured Zafar, stating, “Don’t worry, we’ll order it,” to which Pervez raised no objection.
Zafar argued that the trial had significant procedural flaws, calling it a “jail trial” with an expedited process that undermined his clients’ rights. He pointed out that on January 29, the opportunity for cross-examination was cut short, and Bushra Bibi’s statement was recorded late at night. Khan’s statement, he argued, was delayed until January 31, adding that these rushed proceedings limited the defence’s ability to respond effectively.
Justice Farooq advised Barrister Zafar to further consult Imran Khan regarding NAB’s request to remand the case. He cautioned, “If you oppose NAB’s proposal, we will rule on merit.”
This development in the Toshakhana case has captured public attention, with legal experts closely watching the court’s handling of NAB’s request for a comprehensive review.
