The Supreme Court has changed the bench hearing PTI founder Imran Khan’s bail petitions in eight cases linked to the May 9 riots. Justice Mian Gul Hassan Aurangzeb has been replaced by Justice Hasan Azhar Rizvi. The newly formed three-member bench is led by Chief Justice Yahya Afridi and includes Justices Rizvi and Shafi Siddiqui. The reconstituted bench is set to resume the bail hearings today.
This is now the third attempt to proceed with the case after two earlier delays. On Wednesday, the hearing was postponed when Special Prosecutor Zulfiqar Naqvi fell ill due to food poisoning. The prosecution had requested a delay until next week, but the Chief Justice denied the request. He instructed that the case be heard the very next day instead.
Previously, the original bench included Chief Justice Afridi, Justice Siddiqui, and Justice Aurangzeb. The panel was scheduled to hear Khan’s appeals against the Lahore High Court’s decision in the eight cases. However, due to the prosecutor’s sudden illness, no arguments could take place. The prosecution’s absence led to another adjournment.
During the proceedings, the court also denied a request by Imran Khan’s sisters to speak before the bench. The Chief Justice maintained that only legal representatives would be allowed to argue. The court’s strict stance showed urgency in moving the long-delayed case forward. All parties were directed to appear without further delay.
The Supreme Court will now hear the bail petitions today at 10:30 am. The reconstitution of the bench is expected to help avoid further delays. These bail cases are part of broader legal challenges Imran Khan faces after the events of May 9. The outcome may impact his political future and ongoing legal battles.