PTI founder has been acquitted in May 9 riots cases.
Former Prime Minister and Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan was acquitted on Thursday in two cases related to the violent incidents of May 9, 2023.
The District and Sessions Court delivered the verdict, with Judicial Magistrate Omar Shahab presiding over the hearings.
The court found insufficient evidence to sustain the charges against Khan.
Also read: May 9 riots: ATC sentences 51 accused to five-year in prison
Imran Khan’s legal team, consisting of Mirza Asim Beg and Naeem Panjotha, successfully argued for his acquittal.
They highlighted that the First Information Report (FIR) was filed by an unauthorized person and that the charges under Section 109 were not substantiated by any concrete evidence.
Great and brave leader of Pakistan Imran Khan acquitted in two cases of May 9
#قوم_مانگے_خان_کی_رہائی pic.twitter.com/uu0b9E3JqI— Hina Zainab (@hina98_hina) May 30, 2024
Context of May 9 Violence:
The charges originated from widespread violence and protests that erupted across Pakistan following Khan’s arrest on May 9, 2023.
The unrest saw PTI supporters clashing with law enforcement and attacking several army installations, including the Corps Commander’s house in Lahore.
The government had to summon armed forces in regions like Balochistan, Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and Islamabad to restore order.
Broader Legal Battle:
Imran Khan’s acquittal in these cases is a significant legal victory amidst his ongoing legal challenges.
He faces multiple other cases, including those related to the Tosha Khanna gifts, an alleged illegal marriage, and the cipher controversy.
His legal team continues to contend with these accusations, with some sentences still pending.
Future Implications:
As PTI founder acquitted in May 9 riots cases, this court ruling may impact the broader political and legal landscape surrounding Imran Khan and the PTI.
While the acquittal marks a positive turn for Imran Khan, the multiple pending cases suggest that his legal battles are far from over.
The resolution of these cases will likely play a crucial role in shaping his political future and the direction of the PTI.
