Imran Khan Petitions Court Over Defamation Suit

On July 2, 2025, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan escalated his legal defense against a Rs10 billion defamation lawsuit filed by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif by approaching the Supreme Court. The lawsuit, initiated in 2017, stems from Khan’s allegations that Shehbaz offered him a Rs10 billion bribe to drop the Panama Papers case against former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif. Khan’s petition, filed through Advocate Mian Mohammad Hussain, challenges the Lahore High Court’s May 8, 2025, ruling, arguing that the district judge lacked jurisdiction under the Defamation Ordinance 2002.

The petition seeks to overturn procedural errors in the lower court’s handling, specifically citing violations of the Code of Civil Procedure regarding evidence recording. During recent hearings, Shehbaz, appearing via video link, emphasized that Khan’s televised allegations damaged his reputation, though he acknowledged no written materials like posters were involved. Posts on X reflect polarized sentiments, with some users supporting Khan’s claim of public interest disclosure, while others back Shehbaz’s stance on reputational harm, though these remain unverified.

The case, which has seen multiple delays, highlights ongoing tensions between the two leaders, with Khan’s legal team arguing that the defamation suit misapplies legal standards. The Supreme Court’s decision could set a precedent for defamation cases in Pakistan’s politically charged environment.

Published in SouthAsianDesk, July 3rd, 2025

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