Supreme Court grants Imran Khan bail in eight May 9 riots cases

The Supreme Court on Thursday approved bail for PTI founder and former prime minister Imran Khan in eight cases related to the May 9 riots.

A three-member bench, headed by Chief Justice of Pakistan Justice Yahya Afridi, granted the bail after hearing the petitions.

The bench hearing the case saw a change in its composition with Justice Hassan Azhar Rizvi replacing Justice Mian Gul Hassan Aurangzeb in the three-member panel.

During the proceedings, Special Prosecutor Zulfiqar Naqvi informed the court that he was unable to appear the previous day due to health reasons. Chief Justice Afridi responded, assuring him that it was acceptable.

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The Supreme Court approved the bail applications, overturning the earlier decision of the Lahore High Court. The court summoned the parties to its chamber at 1 pm to formally announce the order. In its ruling, the Supreme Court declared the Lahore High Court’s decision null and void.

PTI founder Imran Khan is yet to secure bail in 43 other cases filed against him in Rawalpindi, all linked to protests that took place in September, October, and November.

Despite the approval of bail in these cases, Imran Khan’s immediate release from prison remains uncertain as he continues to face other ongoing legal proceedings.