The Islamabad High Court (IHC) on Tuesday restored the bail and right of defence of advocate Imaan Mazari-Hazir and Hadi Ali Chattha in a controversial tweet case, suspending a trial court order that had cancelled their bail and barred cross-examination of prosecution witnesses.

Justice Muhammad Azam Khan heard petitions filed by the two accused challenging the order of Additional Sessions Judge Muhammad Afzal Majoka.

During the hearing, counsel for Imaan Mazari, Kamran Murtaza, urged the court to set aside the trial court’s order, arguing that it had unlawfully curtailed the right of defence.

Suspending the impugned order, the IHC asked how many prosecution witnesses remained and how much time was required for their cross-examination. Kamran Murtaza sought one week to complete the process.

The court rejected the request, observing that one week was excessive, and directed the defence to complete cross-examination of the remaining witnesses within three days.

The IHC further instructed that the trial proceed smoothly and peacefully, without any disruption, and be concluded in accordance with law.