ISLAMABAD: The Supreme Court of Pakistan has scheduled a suo motu hearing for July 29 to address the investigation into the murder of journalist Arshad Sharif. The three-member bench, led by Justice Mansoor Ali Shah and including Justice Naeem Akhtar Afghan and Justice Shahid Bilal Hassan, will oversee the proceedings.
Notices have been issued to key stakeholders, including the Attorney General, the Director General of the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA), the Interior Secretary, and the Inspector General of Islamabad Police.
Arshad Sharif, a prominent Pakistani journalist, fled the country in August 2022 amidst several legal issues. He first sought refuge in the United Arab Emirates before relocating to Kenya. Tragically, Sharif was killed in Kenya in October 2022. Initial reports suggested that he was mistakenly shot by Kenyan police. The incident occurred when the vehicle he was traveling in was fired upon by the Paramilitary General Service Unit.
In response to Sharif’s death, the Pakistani government dispatched an investigative team to Kenya. The case gained renewed attention earlier this year when the Kajiado High Court in Kenya dismissed the police’s mistaken identity claim. The court ordered a comprehensive investigation into the actions of Kenyan law enforcement and security agencies, prompted by a petition from Sharif’s widow. This ruling represents a significant step in the pursuit of justice for the slain journalist.
The Supreme Court’s involvement underscores the gravity of the case and the necessity for a thorough investigation. The hearing will aim to scrutinize all aspects of Sharif’s murder, ensuring accountability and transparency. This development highlights the importance of both domestic and international efforts in addressing and resolving high-profile cases involving journalist safety and misconduct.
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