ISLAMABAD: A district and sessions court in Islamabad on Saturday issued non-bailable arrest warrants for Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi after he failed to appear before the court in a case linked to alleged misleading accusations against state institutions. The development marks a serious escalation in the legal proceedings and places fresh pressure on the provincial chief executive.
The case is being heard by Senior Civil Judge Abbas Shah, who ordered the immediate arrest and production of the chief minister before the court. The judge adjourned the hearing until January 17, directing authorities to ensure compliance with the warrants before the next date.
Court Orders Arrest After Repeated Non-Appearance
According to court proceedings, Chief Minister Sohail Afridi did not appear despite prior notices. The court observed that his absence hindered the judicial process. As a result, the judge exercised legal authority to issue non-bailable arrest warrants, signalling that the matter would not be treated lightly.
The court order instructs all relevant law enforcement agencies to locate and arrest the chief minister. Authorities have been directed to produce him before the court without delay. Legal experts say non-bailable warrants indicate the court’s dissatisfaction with a party’s conduct and failure to respect judicial orders.
The judge made it clear that further leniency would not be granted. The next hearing will focus on compliance with the arrest warrants and the progress made by authorities in executing the court’s orders.
Case Registered Under Cyber Crime Law
The case against the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa chief minister was registered by the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA). It has been filed under the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA). The charges relate to allegations of spreading misleading accusations that allegedly harmed the credibility of state institutions.
Investigators claim that the content in question was shared through electronic means. Officials say such actions fall within the scope of cybercrime laws. The court is examining whether the material violated legal provisions and caused reputational damage to national institutions.
Legal sources say PECA cases are treated seriously by courts, especially when allegations involve public office holders. The law aims to curb misinformation and protect institutional integrity in the digital space.
Political and Legal Implications
The issuance of arrest warrants against a sitting chief minister has significant political and legal implications. Analysts say the move highlights the growing scrutiny of public officials’ conduct, particularly in digital communication. It also underscores the judiciary’s stance on enforcing accountability, regardless of political position.
Supporters of the chief minister have not yet issued an official response. Meanwhile, opposition figures have called for strict implementation of the court’s order. They argue that equal application of the law strengthens democratic institutions.
Law enforcement authorities are expected to submit a compliance report at the next hearing. Further proceedings will depend on whether the arrest warrants are executed and the chief minister appears before the court.
The case is likely to remain under close public and political watch as it moves forward. Observers believe the outcome could set an important precedent for handling similar cases involving senior public officials.
