The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) has once again postponed the indictment of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Chairman Imran Khan in a contempt case due to his recurrent absence from court proceedings. The ECP’s four-member bench, presided over by Nisar Ahmad Durrani, a Sindh commission member, has repeatedly delayed Khan’s indictment as he continues to decline their summons.
Background and Future Course of Action
This contempt case, initiated in the previous year, marks the first time Khan has attended its hearings. The proceedings also target erstwhile top PTI leaders Asad Umar and Fawad Chaudhry, accused of using disrespectful and contemptuous language against the commission and the chief election commissioner during various media interactions.
During the most recent hearing, Khan’s counsel, Shoaib Shaheen, requested an exemption for his client’s appearance. However, the commission insisted that Khan’s presence was required for the indictment. After hearing the lawyer’s arguments and considering Khan’s medical appointments, the bench decided to adjourn the hearing and set the indictment date for August 22.
