Former PTI leader Fawad Chaudhry was acquitted in the 9 May riots case after presenting solid evidence of his presence at the premiere of the film Money Back Guarantee. The director and producer Faisal Qureshi testified that Fawad was the chief guest at the event, which played a crucial role in proving his innocence.
Anti-Terrorism Court’s Verdict
On August 1, 2025, the Anti-Terrorism Court in Faisalabad, led by Judge Javed Iqbal Sheikh, announced its decision in three cases related to the 9 May incidents. The court sentenced 196 PTI leaders and supporters to up to 10 years in prison, including Omar Ayub, Shibli Faraz, Zartaj Gul, and Hamid Raza.
However, 88 individuals, including Fawad Chaudhry, Zain Qureshi, and Khayal Kastro, were acquitted. The court accepted that Fawad was not present at the scene of the events due to his participation in the film premiere in Lahore.
Faisal Qureshi’s Testimony Played Key Role
Faisal Qureshi, the film’s director, confirmed in court that Fawad was attending the premiere as the chief guest on the same day the violent protests occurred. Documentary proof and witness statements further supported this claim.
The judge noted in his written verdict that Fawad’s presence at the premiere established a clear alibi, removing him from the list of those involved in the 9 May incident.
Fawad Chaudhry Thanks Legal Team and Filmmaker
Reacting to the verdict, Fawad expressed gratitude to Faisal Qureshi for testifying in court despite challenging circumstances. He also thanked his legal team, including Ali Ramey, Mian Ali Haider, and Najeeb Faisal Chaudhry, for defending his case with strong evidence.
> “This decision is a relief for me, but I can’t celebrate while many close friends are still behind bars,” Fawad said. “We continue to pray for justice for all, including our leader Imran Khan and other political prisoners.”
Public Reaction: Mixed Views on Justice
The acquittal sparked reactions across social media and political circles. Former aide Shahzad Akbar sarcastically said,
> “‘Money Back Guarantee’ saved Fawad Chaudhry. Watching movies is now good for your health – and your legal safety too!”
Meanwhile, political analyst Asif Bashir Choudhry questioned the inconsistency, noting:
> “All of PTI is getting punished, but Fawad walks free thanks to a movie premiere? What a joke!”
Others pointed out that leaders like Shah Mahmood Qureshi were proven to be in Karachi on 9 May, yet their pleas were rejected.
While Fawad Chaudhry’s acquittal may seem like a win for justice, it also highlights the inconsistencies in how cases are handled. His alibi was strong and well-documented, yet many other leaders face harsh sentences with disputed evidence. The case continues to spark debate over fairnes
s and legal transparency in Pakistan’s judicial system.
