Shah Mehmood Qureshi, the Vice Chairman of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), publicly disapproved of the recent conviction and subsequent arrest of PTI Chairman Imran Khan in the Toshakhana case on Saturday.
While talking to a local news channel, he said the trial court’s anticipated ruling was an act of state-sanctioned prejudice.
Qureshi claimed the court’s verdict was politically motivated and a pre-planned decision. He quoted Imran Khan’s recent public speeches, where the PTI Chairman had already expressed concerns about a potentially biased judiciary determined to disqualify him.
Allegations of Unfair Trial and Judicial Bias
The Vice Chairman questioned the fairness of Khan’s trial, citing the constitutional provision that ensures justice for every citizen. He asked questions about impartiality, adequate representation, and the opportunity for witness presentations during the trial.
Qureshi expressed suspicion about the repeated assignment of the case to the same trial court and questioned the rapid announcement of the verdict on the weekend. He suggested a potential breach of protocol when the police promptly arrived to arrest Imran Khan as soon as the news was aired on television.
Qureshi also questioned the aggressive police action, stating that Khan was prepared to turn himself in upon presenting an arrest warrant. He vehemently opposed the verdict, arguing that the basic principles of justice were not fulfilled.
In response to this setback, PTI has pledged to challenge the decision in the higher judiciary. They will continue to defend Imran Khan through all legal avenues available. After a subsequent meeting, the party’s core committee will outline its next steps.
Qureshi concluded by expressing disappointment in the system, claiming that justice was not visibly served, and stating that the nation is keeping a close eye on the developments. PTI senior leader Ali Mohammad Khan echoed Qureshi’s sentiments on social media, expressing hope for Khan’s release.
