Shibli Faraz, the Leader of the Opposition in the Senate, has urgently appealed to Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) Justice Yahya Afridi to intervene in the ongoing May 9 trials. He has warned of “grave procedural violations” that he claims are undermining fundamental rights and constitutional protections.
In a detailed letter addressed to the Chief Justice, Faraz expressed deep concern over the conduct of anti-terrorism courts in cities such as Lahore, Faisalabad, and Sargodha. He alleged that court proceedings are being held at an “extraordinary pace,” with sessions extending until 2 to 3 AM, effectively depriving the accused of their right to a fair trial.
Concerns Over Due Process and Transparency in Trials
“Justice hurried is equally fatal,” Faraz wrote, cautioning that the current judicial process risks becoming a mere “facade, bereft of fairness and credibility.” He further alleged that the principle of natural justice is being “routinely compromised.” He cited the appointment of state counsels without consent and the denial of reasonable adjournments as key violations. These practices, he asserted, directly contravene Article 10-A of the Constitution and international fair trial standards.
Faraz also questioned the transparency of the proceedings, stating that restrictions on media coverage and limited access for families evoke the image of “secret courts.” He called for unhindered media access to ensure public oversight.
Allegations of Tampering and Call for Judicial Oversight
Highlighting allegations of evidence tampering and coercion by police and prosecution, Shibli requested an impartial inquiry. He warned that the rule of law is being subverted by arbitrary practices. “The judiciary’s role is more vital than ever in upholding impartiality,” the opposition leader stressed, urging the CJP to examine all ongoing and concluded May 9 trials for procedural fairness.
He concluded by urging the Chief Justice to take corrective steps, including reassessing past verdicts passed under questionable circumstances and restoring the constitutional guarantees of the accused. His letter follows a similar appeal made a day earlier by Omar Ayub Khan, the Opposition Leader in the National Assembly.
May 9 Incidents and Recent Convictions
Last week, anti-terrorism courts in different cities sentenced several PTI senior leaders and lawmakers to 10 years’ imprisonment in the May 9 mayhem cases. The May 9, 2023, events refer to the violent protests that erupted in various parts of the country following the arrest of the PTI founder. These protests saw attacks on public properties and military installations, including Corps Commander House Lahore, also known as Jinnah House.
The riots were triggered by the arrest of ex-premier Khan from the premises of the Islamabad High Court (IHC) in a graft case. While several PTI leaders and workers were released on bail after their arrests, many still remain behind bars. The deposed prime minister, who was ousted from power via the opposition’s no-confidence motion in April 2022, has been behind bars since August 2023, facing a slew of charges ranging from corruption to terrorism.
