PTI's Zartaj Gul apologises over May 9 riots

Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leader and former state minister, Zartaj Gul on Wednesday apologised over the tragic events that unfolded following the arrest of former prime minister Imran Khan on May 9 in Al-Qadir Trust case.

Talking to the media at Peshawar High Court following submitting a transit bail plea, Zartaj Gul expressed uncertainty about the upcoming election, stating, "I don't know whether I am contesting the election or a war."

Concerns about her potential arrest were raised as she revealed the presence of the police force outside, prompting her to appeal for bail. "I can go to any court; the whole country is ours. I will not leave here until I get bail," she asserted.

میں 9 مئی واقعات کی معافی مانگتی ہوں۔۔ مجھے ضمانت دی جائے اور پولیس کو میری گرفتاری سے روکا جائے۔۔ مجھے انصاف دیا جائے، میں آئین اور قانون پر اعتماد رکھتی ہوں، زرتاج گل#ZartajGul pic.twitter.com/7uRrBhnK3y

— Sahib Zada (@SahibZ_yz999) January 3, 2024

Pakistan's overall political climate was significantly impacted by the riots on May 9.

A crackdown was initiated against PTI's leaders and workers, with thousands arrested, with rights groups raising concerns regarding arbitrary arrests, custodial torture, and forced disappearances.