Federal constitutional court announces Arshad Sharif murder case
Pakistan
Federal Constitutional Court disposes of Arshad Sharif murder case petitions, citing Pakistan-Kenya MLA, no need for judicial oversight, and ongoing investigation through diplomatic coordination.
ISLAMABAD (Dunya News) – The Federal Constitutional Court has announced its verdict in the Arshad Sharif murder case.
In its written decision, the court stated that a Mutual Legal Assistance (MLA) agreement between Pakistan and Kenya has already been signed, and therefore judicial intervention is not required at this stage. The suo motu case and all related petitions have been disposed of.
The verdict noted that the court understands the grief of the journalistic community and the people of Pakistan over Arshad Sharif’s killing. It said the heirs may approach relevant courts on any matter, adding that continuous judicial supervision or keeping the case pending would be against the rights of the accused and principles of transparency.
The court left the matter of approaching international forums to the government’s discretion and foreign policy. It observed that no party has raised objections to the proceedings carried out so far by the Special Joint Investigation Team (SJIT), and that black warrants have been issued for the arrest of the suspects and their trial in Pakistan.
The court further stated that the pace of the investigation depends on diplomatic coordination with Kenya and the laws governing sovereign states.
