PTI slams proposal for judges' hiring amendment

Vows to resist the passage of any such amendment in the parliament

ISLAMABAD:

The Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) has come out strongly against the government's proposal for a constitutional amendment regarding the appointment of judges to superior courts, cautioning that it could further erode the country's institutions.

In a statement issued on Saturday, a spokesperson for the party criticised the move, stating, "The destruction of institutions in the country, appointment of judges, and constitutional amendments are the continuation of this tradition."

Expressing concerns over decisions made in the past two years, the spokesperson lamented that such actions have undermined the supremacy of the constitution and weakened institutions.

PTI’s founding chairman Imran Khan envisions a strong state with robust institutions, he asserted.

Read Govt to amplify parliament's role in judges’ hiring

The statement underscored that the Pakistani constitution does not permit amendments for the benefit of any individual, stressing that legislation should always serve collective interests.

"Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf will oppose this amendment through legal and democratic means, and will seek to block its passage in parliament," the statement asserted.

Accusing the current leadership of weakening institutions to advance their own agendas, PTI further alleged that Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) Qazi Faez Isa's conduct throughout his tenure has been regrettable and unconstitutional.

"CJP Isa's actions have compromised the supremacy of the constitution and the law, diminishing the importance of his position," the spokesperson stated.

"Qazi Faez Isa has opened the door to extra-constitutional and undemocratic influences in the independence of the judiciary, which will have far-reaching consequences," the statement read.

Furthermore, PTI accused the CJP of facilitating the theft of a democratic party's electoral symbol and mandate, suggesting that accepting a tenure extension could be interpreted as accepting a bribe.

"The chief justice's acceptance of a tenure extension is shameful and condemnable," the spokesperson concluded.