Chattha files 342 statement, hearing adjourned to Monday in couple’s controversial tweets case
Human rights lawyer and social activist Imaan Mazari and her husband Hadi Ali Chattha. Photo file
Lawyer Imaan Mazari and her husband Hadi Ali Chattha have filed a petition in the Islamabad High Court seeking transfer of their case alleging lack of transparency by Justice Afzal Majoka in extra sessions.
The petition was filed during the final hearing of the controversial tweet case at the District and Sessions Court. Mazari reportedly told the judge with a smile: “Give me the sentence of seven years, I’m ready.” Judge Majoka did not respond.
Read: Trial against Imaan Mazari ‘not transparent’, lawyer tells IHC
During the session, the Attorney General presented final written arguments. Chattha, representing himself, filed an application seeking the filing of an affidavit under Section 342 of the Code of Criminal Procedure. He said the 342 statement is essentially the statement of the accused and submitted a list of witnesses suggesting they could testify online if required.
Chattha said that when witnesses were cross-examined, the public prosecutor received a questionnaire. “I didn’t trust it,” he added, noting that the questionnaire contained 33 questions that he and Mazari had asked for time to answer. The court said no such request had been made. Chattha also claimed that the 342 reply of the Attorney General did not belong to them.
He said when they requested the order yesterday, no copy was provided. He added that the case has been heard five times and that three of their applications were rejected.
Read more: Imaan Mazari protests Attorney General’s withdrawal from tweets case
The court issued notices to the prosecutor regarding Chattha’s application.
District Attorney Naeem Gujar, Islamabad Bar Member Raja Aleem Abbasi and former Supreme Court Advocate President Riyasat Ali Azad attended the hearing. Lawyers in court reportedly raised slogans, prompting Justice Majoka to leave the courtroom.
The hearing was adjourned until Monday.
