On July 29, 2025, Pakistan’s Supreme Court adjourned the hearing of PTI founder Imran Khan’s bail pleas in eight cases related to the May 9, 2023, riots until August 12 without issuing notices, despite a request from Khan’s legal team. The cases stem from violent protests, including an attack on the Lahore corps commander’s house, following Khan’s arrest by the National Accountability Bureau (NAB).
A two-member bench, led by Chief Justice Yahya Afridi and Justice Muhammad Shafi Siddiqui, heard the case. PTI Secretary General Salman Akram Raja represented Khan, as lead counsel, since Salman Safdar was abroad. Raja sought an adjournment and notices to relevant parties, but the bench declined both requests.
Read: Imran Khan Challenges LHC Bail Rejection in May 9 Riots Cases at Supreme Court
Khan’s appeal, filed through Safdar, argues he could not have conspired or abetted violence while in NAB custody during the riots. It claims the Lahore High Court (LHC) relied on “engineered and fabricated evidence,” including delayed police statements, to reject his bail on June 24, 2025. The appeal describes Khan’s legal battles as part of an “unprecedented campaign of political victimisation” since his ouster as prime minister in 2022.
Leader Imran Khan’s bail petitions in 8 cases related to May 9th will be heard tomorrow at 9:30 AM in the Supreme Court of Pakistan. The bench will be headed by Chief Justice Yahya Khan along with Justice Muhammad Shafi.
This hearing is critical, as these politically motivated… pic.twitter.com/qXycaArGef
— PTI Canada Official (@PTIOfficialCA) July 28, 2025Background of the May 9 Riots
The riots erupted after Khan’s arrest on May 9, 2023, at the Islamabad High Court (IHC) in a corruption case. Protests targeted military installations, prompting a state crackdown on PTI. The LHC’s verdict cited evidence, including statements from two police officials, alleging Khan instructed party leaders to attack military sites if arrested. These instructions were reportedly given at meetings in Chakri, Rawalpindi, on May 4, and at Khan’s Zaman Park residence in Lahore on May 7–9, 2023.
Read:PTI Appeals to CJP Yahya Afridi for Fair Trials in May 9 Cases
Khan has been acquitted in other cases, such as the cipher and Iddat cases, but faces ongoing legal challenges tied to May 9.
The adjournment delays resolution for Khan, who remains incarcerated. The case highlights tensions in Pakistan’s political and judicial systems. The Supreme Court’s next hearing, scheduled for August 12, will be critical for Khan’s legal standing and PTI’s future.
