Defamation case drama: PM claims ignorance of PTI’s court reply

WEB DESK: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Monday appeared before Additional Sessions Judge Yalmaz Ghani via video link in a Rs10 billion defamation lawsuit he filed against the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf founder Imran Khan.

During the hearing, PTI’s counsel Mian Muhammad Hussain Chotia cross-examined the premier. When asked whether he had read Imran Khan’s written response to the defamation claim, PM Shehbaz replied: “I have not read the PTI founder’s reply at all.”

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The prime minister confirmed he was testifying from a closed room through video link with his lawyer Mustafa Ramday present, but noted no PTI representatives were in the room.

The court adjourned proceedings after recording the prime minister’s statement, with further cross-examination expected in upcoming hearings. Legal experts suggest the high-profile case could set important precedents regarding defamation claims involving public figures in Pakistan.

The Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) leader has filed a claim for Rs 10 billion in damages against the founder of opposition party PTI. The case stems from allegations exchanged between the political rivals. PM Shehbaz had filed the massive defamation suit after what he claims were baseless accusations made against him by the PTI leadership.