Sheikh Rashid acquitted in Zardari remarks case

Sheikh Rashid still faces 14 terrorism charges pending in court.

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A district and sessions court in Islamabad acquitted former federal minister Sheikh Rashid Ahmed on Friday in a case pertaining to his allegations against President Asif Ali Zardari for plotting to assassinate former prime minister Imran Khan.

The verdict, which had been reserved earlier, was announced by Judicial Magistrate Yasir Mehmood, Express News reported.

Speaking to the media outside the courthouse, Sheikh Rashid expressed gratitude for his acquittal, acknowledging his legal team and supporters.

Sheikh Rashid, however, pointed out he still faces 14 terrorism cases, asserting that many of these cases were filed while he was not present at the alleged incident locations. He emphasised his innocence, adding that he is set to appear in hearings related to terrorism charges involving cases in Moach, Lasbela, and Murree.

Addressing Pakistan’s political climate, Rashid criticised the ruling government, accusing it of creating inflation and failing to secure agricultural produce prices for farmers. He commented on his belief that an interim national government may be necessary and criticised India over its stance on cricket and actions in Kashmir and Manipur.

Yesterday, the district and sessions Court in Islamabad reserved its verdict on Sheikh Rashid's acquittal plea in the case .

Civil Judge Yasir Mahmood presided over the session, where Sheikh Rashid appeared alongside his legal team, Express News reported.

Sheikh Rashid's lawyers argued for acquittal, claiming procedural lapses in the filing of the FIR.

Defence counsel argued that the case was filed improperly, citing the precedent of the Shahbaz Gill case, and contended that Sheikh Rashid’s comments involved a private individual, not a public official.

The case arose following a complaint by local Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) leader Raja Inayat, who alleged that Sheikh Rashid's remarks were defamatory and incited unrest.

The police in Islamabad’s Aabpara precinct registered the case, charging Sheikh Rashid under Pakistan Penal Code sections 120-B (criminal conspiracy), 153-A (promoting enmity), and 505 (statements conducing public mischief).

Sheikh Rashid initially made his allegations in February 2, claiming that former President Zardari was conspiring to have Imran Khan killed. Rashid was subsequently arrested, prompting the PPP complaint and subsequent legal proceedings.