Pakistan’s Federal Minister for Law and Justice, Azam Nazeer Tarar, dismissed on Tuesday the recommendations of the United Nations Working Group on Arbitrary Detention (WGAD) concerning the release of the country’s former Prime Minister Imran Khan. The WGAD’s report, which called for Khan’s immediate release, criticized his arrest as arbitrary and in violation of international law.
In his response, Tarar emphasized that the arrest and ongoing legal proceedings against Khan are internal matters governed by Pakistan’s constitution and law. He also asserted that any demands beyond these legal frameworks would be considered unjust and biased. Tarar’s statement was broadcasted by state broadcaster PTV.
The law minister’s comments came in response to the WGAD’s assertion that the charges against Khan were politically motivated and lacked legal basis. The UN body has recommended not only Khan’s release but also his compensation.
Imran Khan has been incarcerated since August 2023 following a conviction on multiple charges. Although Pakistan’s courts have suspended two of his sentences, he remains detained due to a separate conviction related to an unlawful marriage case. For more detailed coverage, see the original article on JURIST.