In suit against Imran, PM says defence wasting court’s time

LAHORE: Additional Sessions Judge Yelmaz Ghani on Saturday adjourned Rs10 billion defamation suit of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif against Pakistan Tehrik-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan till June 23 (tomorrow).

The court, while addressing Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif through video link, said, “you should declare that you won’t make any false statement, and if so, Allah will be angry with me.” The PM replied making the aforementioned statement.

PTI lawyer Mohammed Hussein asked the Prime Minister why his statement did not mention who identified him in front of the oath commissioner, since his present hearing was being held in his room.

The Prime Minister said the oath commissioner would have known him anyway in capacity as Punjab chief minister. Besides, he had had many appearances before the same judge in the past.

He regretted that so far, no matter other than seals and signatures were discussed by respondents wasting precious court time. The court remarked that perhaps defence wanted to meet you again and again. Shehbaz Sharif told the court that legal notice was issued on his direction. PTI lawyer said there is no legal notice in your claim. Shehbaz Sharif’s lawyer said the court should allow us to submit legal notices. The court said you should file a petition in this regard.