In a recent development, Accountability Court Judge Muhammad Bashir has retracted his application for leave until retirement, following the Ministry of Law and Justice’s non-acceptance of the request.
Judge Muhammad Bashir, known for presiding over high-profile cases involving former prime ministers and other political figures, initially sought leave on health grounds until his scheduled retirement in March 2024. However, the Ministry of Law and Justice declined the leave application, prompting this reversal.
In a letter addressed to the Islamabad High Court and the Ministry of Law and Justice, Judge Bashir cited poor health as the primary reason for his leave request. The letter outlined his inability to perform duties effectively due to health concerns. Judge Bashir’s retirement is set for March 14, 2024, and he had originally requested leave from January 24 to March 14.
The withdrawal of the leave application adds a new twist to the ongoing legal proceedings involving several prominent political figures, including former prime ministers like Nawaz Sharif, Shahid Khaqan Abbasi, and Sayed Yousaf Raza Gilani. The judge had also overseen cases related to the PTI chairman and former president Asif Ali Zardari.
This development raises questions about the implications on the pending cases and the future course of action in the Accountability Court. As the legal community closely observes these events, further updates on this matter are anticipated in the coming days.
