Fight against defamation

Court’s decision to award Rs150 million in damages signifies step towards upholding the principles of justice

In a rare occurrence in Pakistan’s legal landscape, ANP chief Asfandyar Wali Khan has emerged victorious in a defamation lawsuit against PTI’s Shaukat Ali Yousafzai. The court’s decision to award Rs150 million in damages signifies a significant step towards upholding the principles of justice and accountability in the face of slanderous accusations.

The lawsuit stemmed from allegations made by Yousafzai during a press conference in 2019, where he purportedly accused Asfandyar of “selling Pashtuns for $25 million”. Such defamatory statements not only tarnish the reputation of individuals but also undermine the fabric of democratic discourse by perpetuating baseless accusations for political gain. Despite being given the opportunity to defend himself, Yousafzai failed to attend court proceedings, leading to an ex parte verdict against him. This failure to engage with the legal process reflects a disregard for accountability and reinforces the need for stringent measures to deter defamation in public discourse. By holding individuals accountable for their words and actions, the court has set a precedent that may serve as a deterrent against the politicisation of accusations in Pakistan’s fraught political landscape. Moreover, the substantial damages awarded send a clear message that defamation carries serious consequences.

Beyond mere financial compensation, this verdict serves as a vindication of integrity and reputation, reaffirming the importance of truth and fairness in public discourse. As we applaud the court’s decision, it is essential to recognise that defamation cases must always be taken to their logical conclusion in order to safeguard the principles of justice and accountability. Moving forward, it is imperative for courts to continue this trend of upholding the rule of law and ensuring that no individual is above accountability, regardless of their political affiliations.

Published in The Express Tribune, March 23^rd, 2024.

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