For speedy trial: CM approves transfering slain JUI-F leader’s case to military court

Dr Khalid Soomro was gunned down in November 2014 after offering Fajr prayers

KARACHI: Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah approved on Thursday a summary to refer the murder case of Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (JUI-F) leader Dr Khalid Mehmood Soomro to a military court.

The decision was made after the party threatened to stage a sit-in in front of CM House and started its protest rally from Tibet Centre. Dr Khalid’s son, Maulana Rashid Mehmood Soomro, who replaced his father’s position as secretary-general of the party, was leading the rally.

Considering the situation, the delegation led by law adviser Murtaza Wahab and former religious advisor Qayoom Soomro reached Tibet Centre and negotiated with JUI-F leaders, assuring them that the case will be referred to a military court, after which, the party called off its protest.

Later speaking to the media, Wahab said that apart from Dr Khalid’s murder, the issue of registration of seminaries in the province was also discussed.

“Soon after the summary was approved, the CM directed the home department to refer the murder case to military courts,” said Wahab, adding that a committee comprising members of JUI-F and the government will also be formed to consult on the issue of registration of seminaries. “We will not pass such a law without taking religious parties into confidence,” he added.

“Today, PPP ministers have assured to provide us justice and take us into confidence in seminaries’ registration, therefore we call off our protest,” said Rashid, after which the protesters dispersed.

Dr Khalid was gunned down in November 2014 in Sukkur when he was leaving a mosque after offering Fajr prayers. Soon after the incident, former CM Qaim Ali Shah had announced to refer this case to a military court but all in vain.

Published in The Express Tribune, September 2^nd, 2016.