Arshad Sharif Murder Case Enters Final Stages, Federal Shariat Court Indicates Swift Resolution

Islamabad: The Arshad Sharif murder case has entered its final stages in the Federal Shariat Court, with the bench directing both parties to submit their written submissions within five days.

During the hearing, Justice Amir Farooq remarked that the investigation in the case had been considerably slow, though the court did not intend to assign blame for the delays. He stated that once the written submissions are received, the court would issue an appropriate order.

Additional Attorney General Amer Rehman informed the court that initially, the Kenyan government had refused to cooperate with the investigation. However, a Mutual Legal Assistance (MLA) agreement between Pakistan and Kenya was finalized in September last year. He added that as soon as Kenya agrees to further investigation, the Pakistani investigative team will be dispatched to the crime scene.

Justice Amir Farooq inquired about the possible progress in the case following the agreement between the two countries. The Additional Attorney General responded that two suspects have been named in the challan, and black warrants have been issued for suspects residing in Kenya, with Interpol being contacted for their arrest.

He further stated that the Prime Minister personally spoke with the President of Kenya to ensure full cooperation and emphasized that the government is making every effort to expedite the investigation. The hearing also briefly referenced the Imran Farooq murder case.

Justice Amir Farooq noted that Imran Farooq’s murder took place in the United Kingdom, where both Pakistani and British authorities conducted the investigation. The Additional Attorney General clarified that the nature of the Arshad Sharif case is different from that of Imran Farooq.

The court adjourned the hearing until the written submissions are submitted by both parties.