K-P reviews closed May 9 cases for revival

Legal advice sought on reopening cases against PTI leaders

PESHAWAR:

Authorities in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa have begun examining the possibility of restoring several cases linked to the violent incidents of May 9 that were earlier closed, following the imposition of Governor's Rule in the province.

Sources said legal advice has been sought on whether cases previously withdrawn against Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leaders and workers due to a lack of solid evidence can be revived. Any further steps will be taken in light of that advice.

During the tenure of former Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur, the provincial government decided to withdraw a number of cases registered in connection with the events of May 9 and 10. Officials at the time maintained that the cases had been lodged with malice and on political grounds, and that insufficient proof existed to sustain them. As a result, the cases were closed.

After the imposition of emergency measures and Governor's Rule, a fresh review of those decisions has started. Sources indicated that the largest number of withdrawals related to May 9 incidents took place in Mardan.

In some of the cases that proceeded, PTI leaders and workers were acquitted. However, the Radio Pakistan attack case remains active, and Chief Minister Sohail Afridi along with other senior PTI figures have been nominated in it.

The review reflects a shift in approach under the new administrative arrangement. Officials are examining whether the earlier withdrawals can be reversed through legal channels while ensuring any revived proceedings rest on available evidence. Further developments are expected once the legal opinion is received and assessed.