Islamabad (HRNW): In a significant legal development, the Supreme Court of Pakistan has restored the ‘Right of Defence’ for Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan in a high-profile defamation lawsuit. The apex court’s ruling effectively reverses lower court restrictions, paving the way for a rigorous legal contest.
Three-Member Bench Grants Appeals
A three-member bench of the Supreme Court, headed by Justice Ayesha A. Malik, announced the reserved verdict. After evaluating the arguments from both legal teams regarding the recording of testimonies, the apex court formally accepted Imran Khan’s appeals.
Background of the Defamation Suit
The case stems from a multi-billion rupee defamation lawsuit filed by current Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif against Imran Khan. The litigation was initiated following public allegations made by the PTI founder regarding alleged financial payoffs linked to the Panama Papers fallout.
The trial court had previously terminated Imran Khan’s right to defend himself due to procedural delays and timelines regarding the submission of responses, prompting his legal council to file an appeal before the apex court.
Restoration of Cross-Examination and Witness Testimony
By accepting Imran Khan’s constitutional appeals, the Supreme Court has struck down the restrictive lower court order. With his right of defence fully restored, the former prime minister is now legally permitted to:
-
Cross-examine the witnesses presented by Shehbaz Sharif’s legal team.
-
Record official statements and present defense witnesses to substantiate his stance before the trial court.
Legal experts have termed this a landmark decision that reinforces Article 10-A of the Constitution, safeguarding the core judicial principle of a fair trial and due process for all citizens.
Support Our Mission:
Join HRNW, the world’s No. 1 Human Rights News Portal, in our mission to be a timely voice for judicial transparency, constitutional supremacy, and legal rights. Your support enables us to continue promoting objective truth and the rule of law.
Click here to help us: HRNW Support Link
