Islamabad, March 14, 2025: In a significant legal victory for Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), the Islamabad High Court has acquitted PTI founder Imran Khan and former Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi in the controversial cipher case, declaring that the prosecution failed to substantiate its claims.
The written judgment, issued by the High Court, nullified their previous sentences, which had already been set aside on June 3, 2024. The ruling highlighted severe procedural flaws, stating that the trial was conducted in undue haste and lacked due process.
The court’s verdict strongly criticized the handling of the case, pointing out that the defense was repeatedly denied adjournments, and when necessary, a state-appointed prosecutor was hastily assigned, with only one day to prepare. The cross-examination conducted by the prosecution was poorly managed, indicating both inexperience and lack of time. Even if the defense’s cross-examination had been excluded, the prosecution’s evidence remained insufficient to establish guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
Despite noting that the nature of the case warranted a remand to the trial court, the High Court chose to decide the case on merit, ultimately acquitting both leaders.
The verdict was announced by former Chief Justice of Islamabad High Court, Aamer Farooq, and Justice Mian Gul Hassan Aurangzeb.
Following the verdict, Aleema Khan, sister of Imran Khan, expressed her views, reiterating that the former prime minister remains committed to the rule of law as the foundation for national progress.
Speaking to the media after visiting Imran Khan at Adiala Jail in Rawalpindi, she raised concerns about his prison conditions, alleging that jail authorities blocked the delivery of books brought for him last week. She said that his actual legal team was denied access to meet him while his interactions with political figures and children—which he actively seeks—are being restricted by a specific official inside the jail.
Referring to the Al-Qadir Trust case, Aleema Khan claimed that its hearings have been delayed since the appointment of a particular judge, implying deliberate judicial interference to keep Imran Khan entangled in legal battles.
She also pointed out the deteriorating law and order situation, emphasizing that under her brother’s tenure, Pakistan enjoyed relative peace, whereas terrorism has been on the rise in his absence.
According to her, political stability and the rule of law are essential for attracting investment, and Imran Khan is the only leader capable of restoring both.
