Shah Mehmood Qureshi likely to be released today

RAWALPINDI: Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaaf’s (PTI) Vice Chairman Shah Mehmood Qureshi is likely to be released from Adiala jail today, where he has been incarcerated since December 13, in a case pertaining to a diplomatic cipher going missing.

His expected release follows a bail granted by the Supreme Court on December 22, 2023. Qureshi, along with PTI’s former chairman Imran Khan, are serving sentences for an indictment by a Special Court in the Cipher Case.

This case revolves around a document from the US government, which Imran Khan claims serves as ‘proof’ of a conspiracy to oust him from power. The charges brought by the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) on August 15 allege the leaders of leaking the diplomatic document, thereby accusing them of violating the constitution and leaking government documents.

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Barrister Taimur, representing Shah Mehmood Qureshi, arrived at Adiala Jail with the necessary bail bond for his client. The apex court had asked him to submit surety bonds worth Rs 1 million. Meanwhile, special court’s judge Abul Hasnat Zulqarnain also reached Adiala jail.

The legal proceedings and subsequent bail approval allow Qureshi an imminent release. However, it’s important to note that Imran Khan will most likely remain in jail, as he is facing charges in two additional cases: Toshakhana and Al-Qadir Trust.

As Qureshi prepares to potentially step back into the political arena, Imran Khan’s ongoing legal battles underscore the tumultuous period the party is navigating.

Qureshi’s return to the political forefront is expected to play a crucial role in leading the party during Imran Khan’s absence. The PTI has grappled with various challenges in recent months, including internal disputes and allegations of the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) impeding party members from filing nomination papers.

The hearing of the case has been adjourned till December 27 (tomorrow).