Opposition leader Omar Ayub seeks SC review of May 9 trials

Opposition Leader in the National Assembly Omar Ayub Khan has urged Chief Justice Yahya Afridi on Tuesday to intervene in the ongoing May 9 trials, alleging constitutional and procedural violations against Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leaders.

In a letter to CJP, Omar Ayub called the trials 'politically motivated' and accused anti-terrorism courts of rushing proceedings at odd hours, denying fair trial rights and legal counsel of choice. 

He further claimed that the hearings often continued from early morning until 3:00 am., undermining judicial transparency and exhausting defendants and lawyers alike.

Opposition Leader also alleged that FIRs were fabricated, interrogation was coercive, and PTI leaders were selectively targeted. He also criticised the denial of media access and the exclusion of family members from the courtroom. Quoting constitutional provisions and Supreme Court precedents, he urged the court to review trial conduct, restore open access, and halt sessions beyond reasonable hours.

Opposition Leader also requested a judicial inquiry into prosecutorial misconduct.