Pakistan High Court has directed authorities to submit a report within 10 days on the whereabouts of former Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi, who is reportedly missing.
Key Points
- Court Order: Pakistan High Court has asked police and officials to submit a report on Sohail Afridi’s location within 10 days.
- Petition Filed: Afridi’s brother filed a petition alleging unlawful detention and kidnapping.
- Emergency Context: State of emergency was imposed in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa on October 11, leading to Afridi’s detention.
- Legal Status: Court is seeking confirmation if Afridi has been arrested or is listed in any criminal case.
ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan High Court has directed the police and senior officials to submit a report within 10 days regarding the whereabouts of former Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi. His brother, Muhammad Amir, filed a petition alleging that the former chief minister was unlawfully detained and kidnapped. The court summoned provincial police chief, senior government officials, and other authorities to provide details on Afridi’s location and legal status.
Context of State of Emergency in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa
A state of emergency was declared in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa on October 11, citing deteriorating law and order. Immediately following this declaration, Sohail Afridi was detained along with several leaders of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), the party of jailed former Prime Minister Imran Khan. The emergency was imposed under Article 232 of the Constitution, with Article 234 also invoked to establish governor’s rule.
Legal and Political Implications
The court is seeking confirmation from the police inspector general, city police chief (CCPO), chief secretary, and home secretary whether Afridi has been arrested or if his name appears in any criminal case. According to the petition, Afridi was allegedly abducted by armed and masked individuals in Peshawar in the presence of the CCPO. The petition argues that detaining Afridi under the state of emergency or governor’s rule cannot be considered lawful.
PTI’s Response and Ongoing Protests
The Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), led by former Prime Minister Imran Khan, has consistently denied allegations of political motivations behind the cases against its members. Over 100 charges, including corruption and incitement of violence, have been filed against Imran Khan since his arrest in 2023. The detention of Sohail Afridi and the imposition of governor’s rule have heightened political tensions in the region.
Next Steps and Public Demand
The next hearing in the case is scheduled for November 3. Afridi’s brother has demanded his safe return, while police officials state that he has been transported to a secure location. The court’s inquiry into the legal status of other PTI leaders is expected to provide further clarity on the situation.
