POLITICS & POLICY MAKING
Awami Muslim League (AML) chief Sheikh Rasheed Ahmad on Saturday appealed to the Chief Justice of Pakistan to expedite hearings of appeals related to the May 9 incidents, saying prolonged delays were worsening the difficulties faced by the public.
The remarks came as the Rawalpindi Anti-Terrorism Court (ATC) heard 12 cases linked to the May 9 violence, including the high-profile attack on the General Headquarters (GHQ).
Speaking to the media outside the court, Sheikh Rasheed maintained that he was not present in Pakistan on May 9 but was nevertheless facing legal proceedings in connection with the incidents.
He made an emotional appeal to the Chief Justice, highlighting the growing hardships of ordinary citizens. “There are many problems in the homes of the poor. Due to inflation and unemployment, people are unable to light their stoves,” he said.
Sheikh Rasheed stressed that significant time had already passed since the May 9 events and urged the judiciary to take up the pending appeals without further delay. He said timely hearings would help bring clarity and decisions in the cases, providing relief to those involved.
The AML chief reiterated that swift judicial action was essential not only for ensuring justice but also for easing the political and social uncertainty surrounding the May 9 cases.