ISLAMABAD — The Islamabad High Court (IHC) on Tuesday directed a trial court to re-record the statements of witnesses in the controversial social media posts case involving lawyer and activist Imaan Mazari and her husband, Hadi Ali Chattha, within a strict three-day timeframe.
The directive was issued by IHC Justice Mohammed Azam Khan during proceedings on a petition filed by Mazari, challenging a November 19 order passed by the trial court. While Chattha appeared in person, Mazari was represented by her legal counsel.
During the hearing, Justice Azam Khan emphasized procedural fairness, observing that the matter had not been examined on merit. He noted that the Supreme Court had already instructed the high court to resolve the issue without delay, prompting the order for a fresh recording of witness testimonies.
Defence counsel Riasat Ali informed the court that the apex court had explicitly directed that both parties be heard before any final decision. However, the assistant attorney general maintained that all records were already available and argued that the testimonies recorded earlier were legally valid and sufficient for adjudication.
Justice Azam Khan raised concerns regarding the trial process, particularly questioning whether Mazari or her legal representative was present when earlier statements were recorded. He also sought clarification on how much time would be required to complete the re-recording of testimonies.
Responding to the court’s queries, Advocate Riasat Ali requested additional time to argue the case on merit, stating that senior counsel Faisal Siddiqui would present detailed arguments. Accepting the request, the court adjourned the hearing until the following day and directed Siddiqui to appear.
The development follows last week’s intervention by the Supreme Court, which ordered a halt to the trial proceedings until the IHC delivers its verdict. A three-member bench comprising Justices Hashim Khan Kakar, Salahuddin Panhwar, and Ishtiaq Ibrahim accepted Mazari’s plea against an earlier IHC ruling that had declined to stop the trial.
Mazari and Chattha were booked by the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency under multiple provisions of the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA), 2016. The couple was formally indicted on October 30 in connection with the controversial tweets case.
The IHC’s latest order is expected to play a decisive role in determining the future course of the trial amid ongoing scrutiny of procedural compliance and defendants’ rights.
