ISLAMABAD: (HRNW) In a significant legal development, the Supreme Court of Pakistan has reconstituted the three-member bench scheduled to hear the review petition filed by the PTI Founder regarding his “right of defense” in the defamation lawsuit initiated by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.
Key Changes to the Judicial Bench:
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New Leadership: The newly formed three-member bench will now be headed by Justice Hashim Khan Kakar.
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Bench Members: The bench includes Justice Miangul Hassan Aurangzeb and Justice Ishtiaq Ibrahim.
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Notable Substitution: Justice Miangul Hassan Aurangzeb has replaced Justice Ayesha Malik, who was previously presiding over the proceedings.
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Hearing Date: The reconstituted bench is set to formally hear the review petition on March 31, 2026.
Case Background:
The legal battle stems from a defamation claim filed by Shehbaz Sharif following allegations made by the PTI Founder regarding an alleged bribe offer during the Panama Papers case. Previously, a three-member bench led by former judge Mansoor Ali Shah had dismissed the PTI Founder’s plea against the trial court’s decision to terminate his right of defense. Following that dismissal, a review petition was filed in the Supreme Court, the fate of which now rests with the newly appointed judges.
Legal experts suggest that the outcome of the March 31 hearing will be pivotal in determining whether the PTI Founder will be permitted to present a formal defense in the trial court or if the previous restrictions will remain in force.
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