Jokhio’s family objects to NGO’s interference

The heirs of Nazim Jokhio have submitted objections to an application filed by a social organization which was seeking to become a party in the murder case. The family stated that it had full confidence in investigating agencies.

"The court is requested to reject the application to become an intervener in the case," the objection stated.

The special anti-terrorism court directed authorities to present Jam Karim and other suspects at the next hearing. The Nazim Jokhio murder case was heard before a special court at the Anti-Terrorism Complex in Karachi Central Jail.

The counsels for the suspects and the social organisation appeared in the court. Complainant Afzal Jokhio and Shirin Jokhio filed an objection on the application of NCHR to become a party in the case. The objection argued that the person who has filed the application to become a party is not authorised.

A National Commission of Human Rights, formed under Section 3 of the NCHR Act 2012, may exercise its powers under this act. The head of the commission can be a person who is qualified to be a judge of the Supreme Court.

"The application to become a party in the case was filed without the permission of the members of the commission and should be rejected," the family stated. It added that if the court starts hearing such petitions, it will affect the right to a fair trial. "I have full confidence in the investigating bodies. The court is requested to reject the application of the National Commission for Human Rights to become a party," the objection read.

The suspects' counsels argued that propaganda was being spread against the suspects on mainstream and social media. "We will file a complaint against the counsel of the social organidation in the bar council. Social organisations are targeting the PPP. They should be stopped," the suspect's counsels argued.

Meanwhile, the counsel for the social organisation asked whether these were the counsels for the PPP or the suspects. "This is a high-profile case. When the media raises questions, I present my position as a lawyer."

The court remarked that it was not concerned with what was happening outside the court. "The parties should argue on legal points in the court."

The counsel for the social organisation contended that if the court so orders, he will present the minutes of the meeting of the National Commission for Human Rights. "I will present the minutes of the NCHR meeting at the next hearing."

Accused Jam Karim and others could not be produced in court by the investigation officer.

Published in The Express Tribune, April 22^nd, 2022.