Pakistan’s Top Court Approves Bail for Imran Khan in May 9 Cases

Pakistan’s Supreme Court granted bail to Imran Khan in eight May 9 cases, overturning earlier denials but leaving him jailed in the Al-Qadir Trust corruption case.

Pakistan’s Supreme Court has granted bail to former Prime Minister Imran Khan in eight cases related to the violent protests of May 9, 2023. A three-member bench, led by Chief Justice Yahya Afridi, overturned the Lahore High Court’s earlier denial of bail.

These cases involved accusations ranging from vandalism of military and state installations to attacks on the Lahore Corps Commander’s residence. The Supreme Court’s decision emphasized the principle of consistency, noting that bail had been granted in similar conspiracy-related matters.

Reports from Pakistani media highlighted that in November 2024, a Lahore anti-terrorism court and subsequently the Lahore High Court had both rejected Imran Khan’s bail requests in the same cases.

Local outlets noted that Chief Justice Afridi instructed trial courts to ensure the proceedings were not prejudiced by this order and to aim for swift justice without affecting merit-based outcomes.

Observers have also pointed out that the ruling signals a significant but cautious judgment by the judiciary, granting relief while maintaining neutrality on the legal merits of the cases.

This decision marks a pivotal point in Imran Khan’s legal battles, offering a momentary reprieve amid numerous ongoing trials. While bail is granted, the broader legal consequences and the outcome of merit-based proceedings remain unresolved.

The ruling also reflects judicial balancem, responding to appeals for fairness without encroaching on trial court processes. It may open the door for more consistent application of justice in politically sensitive cases across Pakistan.

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