Federal Constitutional Court disposes of Arshad Sharif murder case

The Federal Constitutional Court has issued its written verdict while disposing of the case related to the killing of journalist Arshad Sharif.

The judgment was authored by Justice Aamer Farooq, who stated that a Mutual Legal Assistance (MLA) agreement between Pakistan and Kenya has already been signed and, at this stage, no judicial intervention is required.

The written order said that the suo motu proceedings along with all related petitions stand disposed of.

The court observed that it understands the grief of the journalistic community and the people of Pakistan over Arshad Sharif’s killing.

It added that the governments of Pakistan and Kenya are taking appropriate steps and therefore court intervention is not warranted at this point.

The verdict clarified that the deceased’s family may approach relevant courts regarding any matter related to the case.

The court further stated that the decision to approach international forums falls within the domain of the government’s discretion and foreign policy.

According to the judgment, no party has raised objections over the actions taken so far by the Special Joint Investigation Team.

The court noted that black warrants have already been issued for the arrest of the suspects and their trial in Pakistan.

The court maintained that the pace of the investigation is subject to diplomatic coordination with Kenya and the laws governing sovereign states.

It is pertinent to note that Arshad Sharif was shot dead by police on 23 October 2022 on Magadi Highway in Nairobi, Kenya.