The Shariat Appellate Bench of Pakistan’s Supreme Court has ordered the release of a convicted murderer after 27 years, based on a reconciliation agreement between the parties. Chief Justice Qazi Faez Isa also apologised to the parties for the delay in justice.
Chief Justice Isa, leading a five-member Shariat Appellate Bench, issued the decision after hearing the appeal of Muhammad Akram on Wednesday. The case, filed 27 years ago, concluded with the court ordering Akram’s release.
“Justice delayed is justice denied,” Chief Justice Isa said, expressing regret for the prolonged incarceration. The petitioner’s lawyer informed the court that a reconciliation had been reached between the convict and the victim’s heirs, and the convict had served other sentences.
