Lawyers seek early hearing of Mazari, Chattha appeals against conviction
ISLAMABAD: Lawyers’ representative bodies in the federal capital have called for an early hearing and decision on appeals filed by lawyers Imaan Mazari and Hadi Ali Chattha against their convictions , saying the delay was denying them their constitutional right to a fair trial. Speaking at a joint press conference on Wednesday, office-bearers of the Islamabad Bar Council (IBC), Islamabad High…
In Islamabad, lawyers' representative bodies have urged for a prompt decision on appeals from two lawyers, Imaan Mazari and Hadi Ali Chattha, against their convictions. This call comes amidst concern that the delay in hearing their cases is infringing on their right to a fair trial. Speaking at a press conference, officials from the Islamabad Bar Council, the High Court Bar Association, and the Bar Association called for an expedited hearing.
IBC Vice-Chairman Asif Irfan stated that the judiciary's responsibility is to resolve disputes between the state and citizens over fundamental rights. He accused the judiciary of failing to fulfill this duty. Mazari and Chattha were sentenced to 17 years in prison in January for multiple charges under the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act, a decision widely criticized by lawyers and UN experts.
Despite filing an appeal in February, four months have passed without the Supreme Court implementing its order to schedule the appeal. The District Bar Association's president warned that if public confidence in the courts wanes, the rule of law could ultimately collapse.
Written by urgent.news from Dawn - Pakistan's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
