Acquittal and re-arrest

It appears that former prime minister Imran Khan is riding a wave of favourable outcomes. Khan and his wife Bushra Bibi received a significant reprieve after a sessions court annulled their conviction in the Iddat case. This verdict comes on the heels of the reserved seats case decision, which also went in favour of his party. The Iddat case emerged when Bushra Bibi’s ex-husband alleged that the couple married during her Iddat period, violating Islamic law. The acquittal in the Iddat cases follows several others, most notably in the cipher case and those related to the May 9 riots. Khan’s sentences in two Toshakhana cases have also been suspended, whereas the IHC in May also approved his bail application in the £190 million case.

But while the latest acquittal did eliminate the final legal hurdle that had kept khan behind bars since August last year, the former PM – as well as his wife – have failed to walk free thanks to a fresh Toshakhana case that was revealed just about the moment the Iddat case verdict was announced. It is deplorable that the charade of injustice continues and the former first couple is booked in yet another frivolous case. Speaking of such cases, the LHC noted a day earlier that mala fide intentions were driving the multiple cases filed against PTI activist Sanam Javed.

The writing on the wall has never been clearer. The helmsmen must now desist from making a mockery of the judiciary. The rule of law relies on fair and consistent adherence, protecting the people’s rights and well-being. In navigating these legal waters, we must strike a balance. The courtroom is not a stage for jokes; it’s where justice prevails. Let’s hope that our legal system will continue to evolve with wisdom and integrity.