ISLAMABAD: On Saturday, Islamabad trial court granted former Prime Minister Imran Khan a one-day exemption from appearing in the Toshakhana case.
The case involves a criminal complaint filed by the Election Commission (ECP) regarding Imran concealing details of state gifts. ADSJ Humayun Dilawar presided over the hearing, with Barrister Gohar Ali representing Imran and Advocate Amjad Pervaiz representing the ECP.
During the hearing, one of Imran’s lawyers objected to the daily hearings, which led to the judge expressing displeasure over Imran’s frequent absences. Nonetheless, the judge accepted the counsel’s request for a one-day exemption but demanded Imran’s presence on Monday (July 24).
Earlier, Imran’s counsel Khawaja Haris Ahmed had also appeared, seemingly attempting to prolong the case, frustrating the judge’s efforts to conclude it promptly. The cross-examination of two prosecution witnesses was adjourned until Monday as well.
The hearing
At the start of the hearing, Imran’s counsel requested an exemption for his client until Monday (July 24).
The ECP lawyer objected, claiming the exemption plea lacked solid reasons.
Advocate Pervaiz argued the suspect should be present during the trial and asked the court to ensure Imran’s appearance.
The judge asked if Imran would appear on Monday. Barrister Ali explained Imran’s appearance in the Supreme Court for a case in Quetta.
ADSJ Dilawal said Imran could appear here after the apex court.
Lawyer Niazullah Niazi objected to the daily hearings.
The judge noted the case file contained only the exemption plea for today.
He observed the exemption requests were always accepted despite Imran’s absence.
The court accepted Imran’s plea and directed his counsel to ensure his appearance after the Supreme Court hearing.
Subsequently, the court adjourned the hearing.
