IHC directs trial court to re-record witness statements in Imaan Mazari, Hadi Chatha case

Islamabad (Web Desk): The Islamabad High Court (IHC) on Tuesday intervened in proceedings against lawyers Hadi Ali Chatha and Imaan Mazari, ordering the trial court to record the witnesses’ statements again in a case linked to contentious tweets, stressing that the accused are entitled to a fair trial under the Constitution and that the integrity of the process must remain beyond question.

Justice Muhammad Azam Khan heard the petition filed by Imaan Mazari and Hadi Ali Chatha.

Their counsel, Riasat Ali Azad, told the court that Mazari had formally sought an adjournment because of illness, yet the trial court proceeded to record statements from four witnesses in her absence, a move he argued was unlawful.

Azad further informed the bench that the power of attorney for senior advocate Faisal Siddiqui had now been received and that Siddiqui would advance arguments at the next hearing.

He requested that adequate time be granted to address the case on its merits and emphasized the need to place the complete record before the court, including the relevant order of the Supreme Court.

On behalf of the state, Assistant Attorney General Raja Zamiruddin maintained that the statements already recorded were lawful and described the petition as another attempt to slow down the trial.

Justice Azam Khan observed that exemptions during trial proceedings are meant to ensure fairness and prevent prejudice.

He asked whether any pleader had been appointed in Imaan Mazari’s absence when the witnesses were examined.

Hadi Ali Chatha responded that no pleader had been appointed and that no lawyer was present in court at the time.

The judge clarified that the high court was not examining the substance of the case at this stage but was addressing a procedural issue.

With both sides agreeing, the court directed the trial court to re-record the witnesses’ statements and subsequently adjourned the hearing.