RAWALPINDI: On Thursday, an anti-terrorism court (ATC) indicted 14 more individuals, including senior Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leader Shah Mahmood Qureshi and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur, in connection with the General Headquarters (GHQ) attack case.
The case pertains to the violent protests that erupted across Pakistan on May 9, 2023, following the arrest of PTI founder and former Prime Minister Imran Khan. The court also indicted other PTI leaders, including Kanwal Shauzab, Shehryar Afridi, and Shibli Faraz, for their alleged involvement in the unrest.
Indictments and Legal Proceedings
To date, 113 suspects have been indicted in the case, with the court summoning six additional accused to appear on December 21 (Saturday). Following their indictments, Qureshi, Shauzab, and Gandapur filed petitions seeking acquittal, which will be heard by the ATC judge on Friday.
During Thursday’s proceedings, several high-profile PTI figures, including Imran Khan, Qureshi, Sheikh Rashid, Fawad Chaudhry, Shibli Faraz, Shehryar Afridi, and Gandapur, were present in the courtroom. After indicting the accused, the judge adjourned the hearing until December 21.
Earlier in the week, the court indicted nine other individuals, including Shireen Mazari and PTI leaders Rashid Hafiz, Khadim Hussain Khokhar, Zakirullah, Azeemullah, Tahir Sadiq, Mehar Javed, Chaudhry Asif, and Munir, for their roles in the May 9 protests.
The May 9 Protests and Their Aftermath
The protests on May 9, 2023, were triggered by the arrest of Imran Khan by the National Accountability Bureau (NAB). Supporters and workers of PTI took to the streets in outrage, targeting military and government installations, including Jinnah House in Lahore and the GHQ in Rawalpindi.
The military designated May 9 as “Black Day,” condemning the events and announcing that those involved would be tried under the Army Act. At least 70 PTI leaders were accused of orchestrating the attacks, allegedly inciting workers and supporters to vandalize and commit arson.
Imran Khan’s Defense and Accusations
Imran Khan, who has been charged for his alleged role in the violence, has denied the allegations. He has pointed fingers at “agencies men” for inciting arson and firing during the protests. Despite securing relief in several cases, the former premier continues to face a slew of charges related to the May 9 incidents, which are being heard across various anti-terrorism courts.
The then-government, as well as the current administration, have consistently accused Khan and the PTI leadership of orchestrating what they describe as “organized” attacks on military installations.
The Army Act and Legal Implications
The May 9 events marked a significant escalation in the political crisis in Pakistan, with the military taking a firm stance against the protesters. By deciding to try those involved under the Army Act, the military underscored its determination to hold individuals accountable for targeting state institutions.
This decision has sparked debates about the balance between civilian and military jurisdiction in handling cases of political unrest. Critics argue that such trials may undermine the principles of civilian justice, while proponents contend that the severity of the attacks warrants military intervention.
As the legal battles surrounding the May 9 events unfold, the PTI leadership faces increasing scrutiny. The ongoing indictments and trials are likely to shape the party’s political future, as well as the broader political landscape in Pakistan.
The court’s upcoming hearing on December 21 will be closely watched, as it may set the tone for subsequent proceedings. With tensions remaining high and accusations flying from all sides, the case underscores the deepening divisions in Pakistan’s political and judicial spheres.
For now, the focus remains on the accused, the evidence presented, and the outcomes of these high-profile trials as Pakistan grapples with the aftermath of one of its most tumultuous political episodes.
