‘Justice delayed is justice denied’: CJP Isa apologises for delay in 27-year-old case

The Shariat Appellate Bench of Pakistan's Supreme Court has ordered the release of a convicted murderer after 27 years, based on a reconciliation agreement between the parties. Chief Justice Qazi Faez Isa also apologised to the parties for the delay in justice.

Chief Justice Isa, leading a five-member Shariat Appellate Bench, issued the decision after hearing the appeal of Muhammad Akram on Wednesday. The case, filed 27 years ago, concluded with the court ordering Akram's release.

"Justice delayed is justice denied," Chief Justice Isa said, expressing regret for the prolonged incarceration. The petitioner's lawyer informed the court that a reconciliation had been reached between the convict and the victim's heirs, and the convict had served other sentences.

The Supreme Court's order noted that Akram, a resident of Khanewal district, was arrested on 13 April 1997 in connection with the murder. A reconciliation between Akram and the victim's family occurred in 2018, but the court was not adequately assisted at that time.

Chief Justice Isa, addressing Akram's lawyer, said, "I apologise for the years your client spent in jail."

The chief justice highlighted that while there have been decisions in favour and against acquittal based on reconciliation agreements, this matter will be addressed in some other case in future.