A local court in Pakistan on Tuesday extended the interim bail of PTI founder Imran Khan and his wife Bushra Bibi in multiple cases, including those linked to the May 9 violence. The court directed that the former prime minister must appear at the next hearing, either in person or via video link.
The order was issued by Additional District and Sessions Judge Muhammad Afzal Majoka. Advocate Shamsa Kayani represented both Imran Khan and Bushra Bibi during the proceedings. However, the court could not hear arguments on the bail applications due to Imran Khan’s absence.
Bail Extension
The interim bail comes as Imran Khan faces several legal cases. These include charges related to the May 9 violence, attempted murder, and the alleged submission of fake receipts. A separate case concerning Toshakhana gifts has also been registered against Bushra Bibi.
In a related hearing, Additional District and Sessions Judge Chaudhry Amir Zia extended Bushra Bibi’s interim bail on her pre-arrest bail application. Her case, registered at the Ramna police station, falls under the Peaceful Assembly and Public Order Act, along with other relevant provisions.
Legal Access Issues Raised
Alongside the bail proceedings, legal access for Imran Khan and Bushra Bibi has become a concern. PTI lawyer Khalid Yousaf Chaudhry was reportedly not allowed to meet Imran Khan to obtain his signature on power of attorney documents needed to appeal his Toshakhana case conviction.
PTI condemned the delays and restrictions, describing them as deliberate obstructions to its founder’s right to appeal. The party stated that authorities at Adiala Jail were preventing meetings with lawyers, closing the legal desk, and denying facilitation for executing legal documents.
Party Demands Unhindered Legal Access
The PTI emphasised that, under the Punjab Prison Rules, 1978, prisoners have the right to meet their lawyers, sign legal documents, and file appeals. The party also alleged that denying access violated Articles 10-A, 4, 9, and 25 of the Constitution.
PTI demanded immediate and unhindered access for Imran Khan and Bushra Bibi to meet their legal counsel and pursue legal remedies.
The court adjourned the proceedings until January 27, instructing that the appearance of both Imran Khan and Bushra Bibi be ensured on the next date of hearing.
