ISLAMABAD: Judicial Magistrate Mubashir Hassan Chishti on Tuesday withdrew the arrest warrants of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur and the show-cause notice issued to his guarantor after Mr Gandapur surrendered before the court in a case pertaining to alleged recovery of liquor and illegal weapons by Bhara Kahu police.

Security was tightened at the judicial complex as the hearing resumed.

Mr Gandapur’s counsel, Raja Zahoorul Hassan informed the court that his client would comply with the court’s earlier orders and was on a standby, awaiting a security clearance to enter the premises. The judge remarked, “Take your time, just present yourself.”

Following a brief adjournment, Mr Gandapur appeared before the court, upon which the magistrate cancelled the arrest warrants and also withdrew the show-cause notice previously issued to his guarantor.

During the proceedings, the counsel requested the court to first hear arguments on the acquittal application before recording his client’s statement under Section 342 of the Criminal Procedure Code. He also sought additional time for preparation, stating that at least five days were needed to argue the matter properly.

The judge responded, “We have five hours today. Start your arguments.” However, the defence lawyer insisted on more time after which the court agreed to provide the amended questionnaire under Section 342 by 3pm.

Mr Gandapur told the court that his absence on July 21 was due to the Senate elections in which he had to cast his vote as the chief minister. The judge noted that the court had allowed him to record his statement online, to which Mr Gandapur said internet issues had prevented him from joining virtually.

After briefly hearing the matter, the court adjourned the proceedings until Thursday, directing him to appear in person and ensure continuous attendance afterward. In its two-page order, the court observed that multiple arrest warrants had been issued due to his repeated absence but acknowledged that his official responsibilities as the chief minister had hindered attendance.

Taking a lenient view, the court cancelled the warrants and accepted his explanation, while ordering the continuation of trial proceedings.

Outside the courtroom, Mr Gandapur while talking to media dismissed the case as politically motivated and dating back to 2016.

“There is nothing in this case. I wasn’t even present when it was filed, and the vehicle in question wasn’t mine,” he claimed. “These are false, fabricated cases meant to pressure us. But we are not afraid and have always respected the law.”

He announced plans to lead a province-wide protest on August 5, saying, “From every district and constituency, people will take to the streets. Our struggle is for truth, and we will win this war.”

Published in Dawn, July 30th, 2025