LHC rejects pleas to suspend sentences of PTI leaders in May 9 cases

LAHORE, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 28th Apr, 2026) The Lahore High Court (LHC) on Tuesday dismissed applications seeking suspension of sentences awarded to senior Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf leaders Ijaz Chaudhry and Mian Mahmoodur Rasheed in cases related to the May 9 incidents.

A two-member bench headed by Justice Syed Shahbaz Ali Rizvi heard the applications challenging the denial of sentence suspension. During proceedings, defence counsel argued that the anti-terrorism court’s verdict was contrary to evidence and legal requirements, and pleaded for the suspension of the sentences.

The lawyers further submitted that both leaders had already filed appeals against their convictions, which are currently pending, and contended that the sentences should be suspended until a final decision on those appeals.

Opposing the pleas, Assistant Advocate General Muhammad Farrukh Khan Lodhi maintained that the trial court’s judgment was based on solid evidence and did not warrant suspension at this stage. Special Prosecutor Munir Ahmad Bhatti also urged the court to dismiss the petitions.

After hearing arguments from both sides, the bench had reserved its verdict, which was later announced, rejecting both petitions.

In the May 9 cases, an anti-terrorism court had earlier sentenced Ijaz Chaudhry and Mian Mahmoodur Rasheed to 10 years’ imprisonment each.