ISLAMABAD: A district and sessions court in Islamabad on Monday issued an arrest warrant for former Sindh governor Imran Ismail in connection with the violence and vandalism during the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) “Azadi March” held in 2022.
The warrant, issued by Judicial Magistrate Mubashir Hassan Chishti, directs police to arrest and produce Ismail before the court. The development came after the former PTI leader failed to appear before the court despite being summoned.
Ismail, who distanced himself from the PTI in May 2023, was nominated in a case registered at Islamabad’s Barakahu Police Station for his alleged role in the violent protests.
Background of the Case
The PTI’s Azadi March was launched on October 28, 2022, by former prime minister Imran Khan along with senior party leaders and supporters. The march aimed to pressure the coalition government into announcing early elections.
The protest culminated in November 2022 when Khan announced his decision to dissolve the assemblies, a move that intensified political uncertainty in the country.
What’s Next?
Legal experts suggest that Ismail’s arrest warrant highlights the judiciary’s tougher stance against political leaders involved in street violence. His arrest, if carried out, could have wider implications for ongoing cases against former PTI leaders.