An Islamabad district and sessions court on Wednesday issued a non-bailable arrest warrant for Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur in connection with a 2016 case where he was accused of carrying alcohol and unlicensed weapons.
Civil Judge Shaista Khan Kundi had previously summoned Gandapur to record his testimony on July 29, setting the deadline for his appearance today, September 4. The court noted that Gandapur had already missed five hearings related to the case.
During today’s hearing, Judge Shaista rejected Gandapur’s request for an exemption from appearing in court on medical grounds. The court expressed frustration over his continued absence, despite repeated summons.
The judge ordered the Station House Officer (SHO) of Bhara Kahu to arrest and produce Gandapur in court tomorrow.
Gandapur’s lawyers, Raja Zahoorul Hassan and Fatehullah Burki, appeared in court, attempting to justify his absence. Assistant Advocate Burki cited a flood situation in Peshawar as the reason for Gandapur’s non-appearance, while Advocate Hassan claimed that Gandapur was unwell and intended to submit a medical report.
Judge Shaista responded by reminding the defense that Gandapur’s presence was mandatory, and that she had previously granted relief by postponing the hearing. She emphasized that Gandapur’s status as a chief minister did not exempt him from legal proceedings.
The court also highlighted that a plea for Gandapur’s acquittal was pending but asserted that the case should be decided on its merits, in line with a Supreme Court judgment.
In a stern remark, Judge Shaista stated, “If there is nothing in the case, be brave and face the court,” before adjourning the hearing until tomorrow.
