Pakistan Court Extends Imran Khan’s Pre-Arrest Bail, Orders Mandatory Appearance At Next Hearing

A district and sessions court in Pakistan has extended the pre-arrest bail of former Prime Minister Imran Khan in five cases, including one related to the alleged attempted murder of former minister Mohsin Shahnawaz Ranjha, local media reported on Wednesday.

District and Sessions Judge Muhammad Afzal Majoka directed the prosecution to ensure Khan’s appearance at the next hearing, either in person or via video link. The court also barred police from arresting the founder of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf in the cases under consideration.

The hearing was adjourned until Wednesday, according to a report by Dawn. During proceedings, Khan and his wife Bushra Bibi were represented by legal counsel. However, despite prior court directions, Khan was not produced via video link. In the absence of his lawyer, Barrister Salman Safdar, arguments on the acquittal plea could not be presented.

The court subsequently directed that Khan must ensure his presence at the next hearing, either physically or through a video link.

Charges Linked to May 9 Events

The cases stem from the events of May 9 and include charges of attempted murder, submission of fake receipts and other alleged offences. A separate case has also been filed against Bushra Bibi for allegedly submitting forged receipts.

In a related matter, Additional District and Sessions Judge Amir Zia extended Bushra Bibi’s interim bail in connection with a case linked to the November 26 protest. Meanwhile, Anti-Terrorism Court Judge Tahir Abbas Sipra deferred indictment proceedings in the Sangjani Jalsa case due to the absence of the accused PTI lawmakers.

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