Lawyers 'deeply concerned' by potential election delay

The legal fraternity on Monday expressed deep concern over the potential delay in holding general elections beyond the stipulated timeframe of 90 days with “serious reservations” on the issues related to the rule of law, supremacy of the constitution and grave violations of human rights.

The decision was made during the 20th meeting of the 25th Executive Committee of the Supreme Court Bar Association of Pakistan (SCBAP) chaired by the body’s president, Abid S. Zuberi.

The house unanimously resolved to convene the All Pakistan Lawyers Convention on September 7 in Islamabad to address the pressing issues and raise the collective voice of the legal fraternity, a press release issued after the meeting stated.

It said that the house was of the unanimous opinion that holding general elections within a constitutionally given time period is a crucial aspect of upholding the democratic process that will allow the nation to exercise its constitutional right and duty.

Any deviation from this fundamental principle can indeed have serious consequences.

The meeting also viewed that the SCBAP, being the vanguard of these fundamental principles, is committed to raising its voice to ensure that the values of the rule of law, the supremacy of the constitution, and the protection of human rights are upheld.

On the other hand, it is equally important to take into consideration, the adverse consequences that may arise due to the extended delay in holding of general elections, they said.

It was expected by the house that the said convention would be attended by a large number of lawyers across the country who shall come together and deliberate on these critical matters.

The convention to be organised by the SCBAP on September 7 shall serve as a testament to our commitment to the values that define our legal profession, the press release affirmed.

In the end, house called upon the legal fraternity to ensure their presence at the said convention to join SCBAP in an effort to protect and preserve the principles that the nation holds dear.

The statement said the venue for holding the said convention will be announced in a day or two.