ISLAMABAD: Islamabad High Court (IHC) approved bail of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Senator Azam Swati in controversial tweets case. IHC Chief Justice Aamer Farooq announced verdict reserved earlier granting bail to PTI leader in case filed against him in November 2022. Senator’s bail has been approved against surety bonds of Rs 200,000. Swati has been behind bars since November 27, when he was arrested for second time for using abusive language against top military brass, including former Army Chief General (retd) Qamar Javed Bajwa.

Swati had filed plea seeking release on bail in IHC in relation to case filed against him on November 26. His earlier plea, filed on December 21 was dismissed by trial court judge Azam Khan, who said that Senator had committed same offence twice. In his application, Senator stated that he did not post derogatory remarks against any institutions. He added that prosecution has no proof against him despite an investigation.

“My father had written letter, I want to read it with court’s permission,” said Swati’s son. At this, Justice Farooq said that letter is present before court. Court said that larger bench would be constituted to settle this matter once and for all. Swati’s lawyer said that court should look into this matter to which court said larger bench cannot be formed today. Meanwhile, Swati’s son withdrew his letter of no-confidence against IHC Chief Justice. Court then inquired about position of challan, to which, Federal Investigation Authority replied that challan was submitted on December 24, 2022 and hearing will take place on January 3. Deputy Attorney General said that PTI senator has committed crime again and case has already been pending. FIA said that Swati did not surrender his Twitter account. At this, court said that investigating agency itself ended physical remand.

Published in The Daily National Courier, January, 03 2023

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