Zulfikar Ali Bhutto
ISLAMABAD: After extensive deliberation, the Supreme Court is set to announce its opinion on the 2011 presidential reference regarding the trial, sentence, and execution of former Prime Minister Zulfikar Ali Bhutto.
The nine-member bench, led by Chief Justice of Pakistan Qazi Faez Isa, reserved its opinion on Monday. Bhutto was hanged on April 4, 1979, following a Supreme Court verdict in a murder case. The presidential reference sought a reexamination of Bhutto’s sentence and execution.
The current chief justice resumed the hearing on December 12, following a decision to expedite the case under the Supreme Court (Practice and Procedure) Act, 2023.
During the hearings, Raza Rabbani, representing Bhutto’s family members, argued that the trial was not transparent, and Bhutto was not nominated in any murder case FIRs.
Additional Attorney General Chaudhry Aamir Reman stated the reinvestigation of the murder charge was illegal, but acknowledged violations and injustice, suggesting government intervention at the time.
The Supreme Court’s opinion is highly anticipated, considering Bhutto’s historic significance and the controversy surrounding his trial.
The court’s decision could have far-reaching implications and may address concerns about the fairness of the trial and subsequent execution.
It marks a significant legal development, as the court revisits a case that has remained contentious for decades.
The upcoming announcement will be closely watched by legal experts, historians, and political observers interested in the legal legacy of one of Pakistan’s most prominent political figures.
In conclusion, Supreme Court to announce opinion on Zulfikar Ali Bhutto trial and execution in a 2011 presidential reference tomorrow.
