Controversial Tweets Case: Islamabad HC Orders Re-recording of Testimonies Against Iman Mazari and Husband Hadi Ali Chattha
Islamabad: The Islamabad High Court has directed the trial court to **re-record the testimonies** of Iman Mazari and her husband, Hadi Ali Chattha, in a high-profile case concerning controversial tweets.
Justice Azam Khan instructed the trial court to complete the re-recording of evidence **within three days**, emphasizing that the court’s order is procedural and not a comment on the merits of the case.
During the hearing, Advocate Riasat Ali Azad stated that the Supreme Court’s orders and records need to be presented and requested time, noting that senior lawyer Faisal Siddiqui had joined the case and would present arguments at the next hearing. Justice Azam Khan noted that the Supreme Court had directed a prompt decision on the petition.
The Assistant Attorney General submitted that all records are already before the court and the case could be decided promptly. Riasat Ali Azad countered, arguing that other ongoing trials are not being rushed and stressed that a **fair trial is a constitutional right** for the accused, requesting sufficient time to present their arguments.
Justice Azam Khan remarked that trial exemptions are intended to prevent prejudice and questioned whether a pleader or lawyer was present when Iman Mazari was absent from the court. Hadi Ali Chattha confirmed that no pleader or lawyer was present, while Riasat Ali Azad explained that Iman Mazari had requested a postponement citing illness.
The court inquired of the government counsel about the timeline for re-recording testimonies. The Assistant Attorney General maintained that the previously recorded evidence is legally valid, while Riasat Ali Azad reiterated the need for adequate time to present arguments, adding that Faisal Siddiqui would address the court.
Justice Azam Khan concluded by **ordering the re-recording of testimonies** with the consent of both parties and scheduled the case for the next hearing, instructing the trial court to carry out the process in accordance with the court’s directions.
