PTI’s Ayub Urges CJP to Review Unfair May 9 Trials

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Opposition Leader in the National Assembly, Omar Ayub Khan, has formally appealed to Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) Yahya Afridi to intervene in the ongoing trials related to the May 9, 2023, unrest. In a letter dated July 27, 2025, titled “Urgent Appeal Against Constitutional and Procedural Violations in Ongoing May 9 Trials,” Ayub alleged that proceedings against Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) members are marred by constitutional violations and prosecutorial misconduct. He called on the Supreme Court to review the trials and reopen those concluded under questionable conditions.

Ayub cited several procedural concerns, including prolonged court sessions lasting until 3:00 a.m., the denial of the accused’s right to legal representation of their choice, and the imposition of state-appointed counsels without consent. He also accused law enforcement of fabricating First Information Reports (FIRs) and using coercive interrogation methods. According to reports by The Express Tribune and Geo News, Ayub argued that such practices erode public confidence in the judiciary and breach the guarantees provided under Article 10-A of the Constitution, which ensures the right to a fair trial.

Speaking to the media on July 29, 2025, Ayub further requested a judicial inquiry into alleged misconduct by prosecutors and security personnel, including the use of unreliable evidence and political bias in targeting PTI members. He demanded that all trial proceedings be made accessible to the press to uphold the principle of open justice. The trials stem from the violent protests that followed the arrest of PTI founder Imran Khan, during which state and military installations, including Lahore’s Jinnah House, were attacked.

Recent convictions by Anti-Terrorism Courts (ATCs), such as the 10-year sentences handed to PTI leaders Malik Ahmed Khan Bhachar and Dr. Yasmin Rashid, have intensified scrutiny of the trial process. Ayub’s appeal also referenced the Supreme Court’s May 7, 2025, decision permitting military trials for civilians involved in the unrest, a ruling widely criticized by PTI for allegedly undermining civil liberties.

By seeking judicial intervention, Ayub aims to challenge the legal framework governing the May 9 cases and to restore transparency and fairness in proceedings involving his party’s leadership and supporters.