In a significant development, the Islamabad High Court (IHC) has acquitted PTI founder Imran Khan and former foreign minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi in the cipher case. The decision comes after the IHC accepted their appeals against their convictions in the case.
Despite the acquittal, both Imran Khan and Shah Mahmood Qureshi are not expected to be released from prison due to other ongoing legal proceedings. Imran Khan’s sentence in the Iddat case and Qureshi’s recent arrest in May 9 cases are factors contributing to their continued detention.
The cipher case revolves around a diplomatic document allegedly not returned by then-PM Imran Khan, who claimed it contained a threat from the US to topple his government. The acquittal marks a significant victory for the PTI duo, with political figures and supporters welcoming the verdict.
Imran Khan’s counsel, Barrister Salman Safdar, hailed the court’s decision, stating that the state failed to prove its case and emphasizing that Imran Khan and Shah Mahmood Qureshi did not engage in any anti-state activity.
The case history reflects a complex legal battle, including multiple indictments, trial delays, and appeals. Despite the acquittal, the legal saga continues for Imran Khan and Shah Mahmood Qureshi, with other cases and legal proceedings still pending.
In a separate development, the IHC has transferred the Iddat case to the court of Additional District and Sessions Judge Muhammad Afzal Majoka following a request for recusal by District and Sessions Judge Shahrukh Arjumand.
