PTI censures ‘delay’ in case proceedings against Imran

Alleges govt seeks to prevent ex-premier’s appearance before court

ISLAMABAD:

 

Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) has strongly criticised the “delay” in the proceedings of what they term "bogus, fabricated, and politically motivated" cases against PTI founding chairman Imran Khan.

The party leaders have also condemned the prohibition on meetings involving Imran Khan and Shah Mehmood Qureshi under the pretext of security concerns, alleging a deliberate attempt to prevent former premier’s appearance in the Supreme Court via video link in a case related to amendments in the National Accountability Bureau (NAB).

During a news conference alongside PTI leaders Advocate Abuzar Salman Niazi and Naeem Panjutha in the federal capital, PTI Central Information Secretary Raoof Hasan expressed grave concerns about Imran Khan's well-being, highlighting his alleged denial of medical tests despite court orders.

Raoof drew parallels with the denial of medical attention to Imran Khan's wife, Bushra Bibi, alleging mistreatment and withholding of entitled facilities for former premier as a prisoner.

He raised suspicions about recent developments, including sudden changes in Imran Khan's security detail and postponement of hearings in various cases.

He censured the government's response to a letter from Islamabad High Court (IHC) Justice Babar Sattar, accusing the government of interfering in judicial affairs.

The PTI central information secretary stated that despite the apex court's order to present Imran Khan via video link, the government allegedly seeks to prevent his appearance, citing security concerns.

Raoof also criticised Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) Qazi Faez Isa, accusing him of being a hindrance to justice and the restoration of constitutional supremacy.

He demanded the resignation of the CJP and the chief election commissioner, attributing them as major obstacles to upholding the Constitution and law.

He referenced Justice Mohsin Akhtar Kayani, who described an incident at the IHC where doors and windows were reportedly damaged, and an individual was taken from the premises, but investigations into the matter within the court remained inconclusive.

Furthermore, he cited Justice Tariq Mohammad Jahangiri's remarks, highlighting the limited freedom of judges, suggesting that their actions were closely monitored, likening their situation to that of prisoners.
Regarding the Dubai leaks, Raoof alleged collaboration among political, judicial, military, bureaucratic, and business figures to facilitate the Pakistani community becoming the second-largest purchasers of properties in Dubai, valued at over $12 billion.

He denounced the ruling elite for allegedly laundering illicit funds into luxurious properties globally, juxtaposing this behaviour with the country's dependency on international loans.

He concluded with a scathing indictment, asserting a lack of shame, remorse, and accountability among the implicated individuals, attributing the nation's deteriorating situation to their actions.

Speaking on the occasion, Abuzar Salman raised concerns about the alleged infringement of privacy rights by security agencies, questioning the legality of their actions.

He highlighted longstanding grievances regarding interference in judicial affairs over the past two years.

Abuzar asserted that such interventions aimed to manipulate decisions in favour of specific interests, often at the expense of constitutional principles and legal norms.

He condemned the powerful figures in the country for their discontent with the actions of the Lahore High Court chief justice, particularly regarding the judicial appointments.

He pointed out discrepancies in the appointment process, citing delays in issuing notifications for judges selected for the anti-terrorism court and the election tribunal.

Abuzar emphasised that under the law, all names recommended by the chief justice should have been promptly notified, implying selective delays in accordance with vested interests.

Meanwhile, Panjutha strongly criticised three individuals whom he described as "touts" for holding a news conference against Justice Babar Sattar.

He alleged that these individuals were dispatched to address the presser at a time when Justice Sattar had summoned officials from various agencies to inquire about the unauthorised recording of private conversations.

He commended Justice Sattar for his refusal to yield to threats and intimidation, applauding his commitment to upholding the principles of justice.

Panjutha called for all institutions to operate within the bounds of the Constitution and law, stressing the importance of adherence to legal frameworks and standards.