The Chief of Awami Muslim League, Sheikh Rashid Ahmed, faces a setback as the Anti-Terrorism Court in Rawalpindi suspended his bail case, potentially paving the way for him to contest elections from behind bars. During a hearing before Judge Malik Ijaz Asif, objections were raised by the public prosecutor against Sheikh Rashid's bail application, deeming them valid. The court instructed the removal of objections and adjourned the bail application hearing until February 6. The suspension of the bail matter and objections may result in Sheikh Rashid Ahmed participating in the elections from jail and casting his vote from Adiala jail. The objections highlighted the absence of court and High Court orders related to the May 9 tragedy in Sheikh Rashid Ahmed's petition.

Additionally, certified copies of judgments from the High Court were not enclosed with the application. The public prosecutor further pointed out the lack of information regarding granted or rejected bail decisions and the omission of crucial details involving former Deputy Speaker Wasiq Qayyum Abbasi, Sadaqat Abbasi, and Colonel Ajmal Saber becoming sworn witnesses. Judge Malik Ijaz Asif deemed all objections valid. It's worth noting that due to a holiday in the High Court and Subordinate Courts on February 5, obtaining copies becomes impossible. With only one day left before the election on February 6, the opportunity to apply for certified copies narrows.

Credit: Independent News Pakistan (INP)