The Constitutional Bench of the Sindh High Court (SHC has stopped authorities from arresting former President Arif Alvi.
The SHC bench also issued notices to the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA), police, and other relevant agencies regarding the details of the cases filed against former President Arif Alvi.
The court heard petitions related to the details of the cases filed against Alvi. The court has restrained any action against the former president, stating that no steps should be taken against him without judicial approval. If there are any secret cases against him, the matter should be brought before the court.
The petitioner's lawyer stated that they had obtained bail in three cases, but were unaware of any further cases. The court issued notices to the FIA, police, and other agencies. The court instructed that all details of the cases and inquiries be provided. While commenting on the matter, the court remarked, "He is a former president; do the institutions believe he might commit murder? Such respect should be accorded to him." The hearing was adjourned until December 19.
In an informal conversation, former President Arif Alvi expressed his gratitude to the judges, noting that when they review a case, they do so very meticulously. The judges, in a lighthearted remark, said that the institutions believe the former president might commit murder.
Arif Alvi stated that in the current situation, senior individuals who could play a role are not being respected by juniors. He pointed out, "If they don't respect their own soldiers, how can we expect respect from them?"
Regarding the case of Faiz Hameed, Arif Alvi mentioned that only Faiz Hameed knows the details, but he acknowledged that it is a good thing that a case is being pursued against him for his involvement in politics. He expressed hope that those still participating in politics are not digging their own graves. Arif Alvi also conveyed his willingness to play a role in improving the situation.
He stated that he would be willing to sacrifice his life for the betterment of the country's situation. "We have always advocated for dialogue; if progress is made, it will be positive," he added. When asked about negotiations, the former president responded that he did not know much and referred to certain individuals as "stubborn."
Arif Alvi also mentioned that he brings a book with him when going to court, as he believes the process is a waste of time. He expressed that the police, courts, and everyone involved were wasting time.
Previously the SHC, hearing a plea of former president Dr Arif Alvi, granted protective bail for 20 days in three cases against a surety or Rs50,000.
Petitioner's counsel, Barrister Ali Tahir, argued that despite peaceful protests, cases have been registered in different cities - Mianwali, Texila and Rawalpindi - under serious provisions including the Terrorism Act.
The purpose of registering cases against Dr Alvi is to exert political pressure on the former president. Barrister Ali Tahir appealed the court to grant protective bail for 20 days so that he and his client approach the relevant courts.
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