Appeal Filed Against Imran Khan and Bushra Bibi’s Acquittal in Iddat Case
The acquittal of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan and his wife Bushra Bibi in the Iddat case has been challenged in the Islamabad High Court (IHC). Khawar Farid Maneka, the ex-husband of Bushra Bibi, filed an appeal on Friday, seeking to overturn the acquittal.
Grounds for Appeal
In his appeal, Khawar Farid Maneka has argued that the decision to acquit Imran Khan and Bushra Bibi is flawed and cannot be sustained. He has named the federal government, Imran Khan, and Bushra Bibi as respondents in the case.
Background of the Acquittal
On July 13, the District and Sessions Court in Islamabad overturned the conviction of Imran Khan and Bushra Bibi in the Iddat case. Additional Sessions Judge Muhammad Afzal Majoka acquitted the former prime minister and former first lady, setting aside their seven-year sentences.
The court ordered the immediate release of Imran Khan and Bushra Bibi, provided they were not wanted in any other case. The verdict also dismissed petitions seeking the formation of a medical board and consultations with religious scholars.
Key Points from the Verdict
The 28-page written verdict highlighted that Khawar Maneka, according to his lawyer, was deprived of his right to conciliation. However, during cross-examination, Maneka admitted that he received news of the Nikah the very next day but did not think of filing a complaint for six years. The judge ruled that Khawar Maneka failed to prove his allegation that Imran Khan and Bushra Bibi solemnized their Nikah during the Iddat period.
Next Steps
The Islamabad High Court will now review Khawar Farid Maneka’s appeal and decide whether to uphold or overturn the acquittal of Imran Khan and Bushra Bibi in the Iddat case.