Imran’s prospects dim as conviction remains in field

• IHC distinguishes between ‘conviction’ and ‘sentence’, holds that former can’t be overturned under Section 426
• Petition challenging cipher trial to be taken up today
• PTI chairman Gohar asks SC to provide ‘level playing field’

ISLAMABAD: The Islam­abad High Court (IHC) on Thursday dismi­ssed a petition seeking suspension of PTI founder Imran Khan’s conviction in the Tosha­khana reference, diminishing his chances of contesting the Feb 8 elections.

• Islamabad police disperse Baloch protesters using non-lethal methods; Human Rights Commission condemns the crackdown.
• IHC rejects Shahid Khaqan Abbasi’s petition to suspend Toshakhana case conviction and disqualification, citing lack of “extraordinary circumstances.”
• IHC summons Attorney General on Abbasi’s petition challenging media curbs and cipher case proceedings.
• Separate IHC bench issues notice to AGP and FIA DG on Abbasi’s petition against media censorship and cipher case proceedings.
• Court questions jurisdiction to suspend the conviction, citing Supreme Court’s ruling.
• AGP to be heard; hearing adjourned.
• PTI Chairman Gohar Ali Khan seeks level playing field in upcoming polls, alleging discrimination against PTI; approaches Supreme Court.