On August 21, 2025, the Supreme Court of Pakistan granted bail to Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan in eight cases linked to the May 9, 2023, riots, ordering his release.
The decision, made by a three-member bench led by Chief Justice Yahya Afridi, alongside Justices Hasan Azhar Rizvi and Shafi Siddiqui, marks a significant development in Khan’s ongoing legal battles.
During the hearing, Chief Justice Afridi questioned the prosecution’s evidence, asking, “Apart from oral and electronic evidence, what else do you have against the accused?” Special Prosecutor Zulfiqar Naqvi noted that the FIR was filed on May 9 and that police sought permission for tests, including a polygraph, which Khan did not undergo despite court approval. Afridi responded, “The trial court will evaluate the evidence,” emphasising legal consequences for non-compliance but urging focus on trial proceedings.
🚨🚨#BREAKING: #SupremeCourt granted bail to former PM @ImranKhanPTI in 9th may cases. CJP #JusticeYahyaAfridi also summoned lawyer of #ImranKhan barrister Salman Safdar and prosecutor Zulfiqar Naqvi to his chamber at 1pm. pic.twitter.com/K9sAuMPKZz
— Asad Ali Toor (@AsadAToor) August 21, 2025Justice Rizvi questioned the sufficiency of the two-month bail period Khan received after the incident, asking if it was adequate for the investigation. Khan’s counsel, Salman Safdar, argued that Khan was not named in five of the cases and highlighted prior delays, including a six-month stall after the Lahore High Court denied bail in November 2024.
The cases stem from violent protests by PTI supporters on May 9, 2023, following Khan’s arrest in a corruption case. The riots targeted military installations and public property, leading to convictions for PTI leaders under Article 63(1)(g) of the Constitution for crimes involving moral turpitude. Khan’s bail approval offers temporary relief amid his multiple legal challenges since his 2022 ouster as prime minister.
The Supreme Court’s decision could bolster PTI’s political momentum, with supporters viewing it as a step against perceived persecution. The court’s emphasis on trial court evaluation ensures a fair process, with the outcome likely to influence Khan’s legal and political future.
