LAHORE: Incarcerated PTI leader and former Punjab Governor Umar Sarfraz Cheema on Wednesday reaffirmed unwavering support for Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Chairman Imran Khan and condemned those who have labeled Khan as a “fitna” (chaos or discord).
In an informal talk with media outside the Anti-Terrorism Court on Wednesday, Cheema asserted that the events of May 9, 2022, benefited the Pakistan Muslim League-N (PML-N) and the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), while genuine PTI supporters were unjustly targeted.
Cheema’s remarks came after the Anti-Terrorism Court of Lahore rejected the Lahore Police’s request for physical remand of PTI Punjab President Dr Yasmin Rashid and Cheema in the lahore Corps Commander (Jinnah House) attack case. Both Rashid and Cheema are already on judicial remand in connection with other cases related to May 9 violence.
During the court hearing, the investigating officer sought 30 days of physical remand for Rashid and Cheema to investigate their alleged involvement in conspiracy against the country and the army. However, Judge Abhar Gul of the Anti-Terrorism Court denied the request, citing insufficient grounds for physical remand.
The court ordered Rashid and Cheema to remain in judicial custody until December 4 and directed the police to continue investigation. It is noteworthy that Rashid was initially booked under the Maintenance of Public Order (MPO) for her role in the May 9 events.
However on May 13, the Lahore High Court had ordered her release but she was re-arrested within hours on separate charges, including involvement in the Jinnah House attack.
Cheema’s statement reflects the ongoing political tensions in Pakistan following the May 9 incidents. His defense of Khan and his criticism of the PML-N and PPP highlight the deep divisions within the country’s political landscape. The court’s decision to deny physical remand of Dr Yasmin Rashid and Cheema suggests that the prosecution may face challenges in establishing their guilt in the Jinnah House attack case.
