Judge orders KP CM Gandapur to appear in court

ISLAMABAD: In the ongoing arms and liquor recovery case against Chief Minister of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Ali Amin Gandapur, District and Sessions Judge Shaista Kundi expressed frustration over Gandapur’s repeated absences.

During the hearing, the judge noted that Gandapur had been given five opportunities to record his statement under section 342 of the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC) but had excused himself each time. The judge said that if there were no substantive issues against Gandapur, he should proceed to record his statement without further delay.

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Section 342 of the CrPC allows for the examination of an accused person at the end of the prosecution’s case. The provision gives the accused an opportunity to explain any evidence or allegations presented against them before the defense begins.

The examination is conducted by the court and involves questioning the accused to clarify their stance on the evidence, although the accused is not under oath.

Gandapur’s lawyer, Raja Zahoorul Hasan, appeared in court, while another lawyer, Safai, questioned the urgency of the prosecution. Safai pointed out that the case dates back to 2016. He also requested the court to consider Gandapur’s current engagement in a jirga in Karam district and suggested scheduling a future date for his appearance.

The judge stated that although the case is nearing its conclusion, the court must fulfill its responsibilities. She insisted that Gandapur must provide a concrete date for his appearance.

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The judge set September 4 as the new date for recording Gandapur’s statement and urged him to be “brave” and present himself if there are no allegations against him.

The hearing was adjourned until September 4, with the court awaiting Gandapur’s compliance with the scheduled appearance.