The Islamabad High Court (IHC) on Thursday directed jail authorities to present former prime minister and PTI founder Imran Khan by 3 pm, according to ARY News.
Justice Sardar Ejaz Ishaq presided over the hearing regarding a contempt of court case concerning the denial of a meeting between Khan and his legal team. The IHC ordered Adiala jail officials to ensure Khan’s appearance in court by 3:00 pm for a meeting with his lawyers.
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During the proceedings, Justice Ejaz Ishaq expressed doubt, stating, “I know you will not comply with my orders,” adding, “Once the PTI chairman is presented in court, this will indeed be a high court.” He further instructed the authorities to arrange appropriate security for Khan’s appearance. If they failed to produce him, the court expected a detailed explanation the following day as to why it was not possible.
The court also directed the Jail Superintendent to provide adequate reasoning if security concerns prevented Khan from attending. Since his imprisonment in August 2023, Khan has faced multiple legal cases after being ousted as prime minister in 2022, when he launched a protest movement against a coalition led by current Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.
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Separately, 62 U.S. Congress members, including notable Muslim lawmakers Ilhan Omar and Rashida Tlaib, have urged President Joe Biden to advocate for Khan’s release and the safety of other political prisoners. In their letter, they called on the Biden administration to seek assurances from Pakistani authorities regarding Imran Khan’s well-being.