Petition filed against LHC CJ over misconduct allegations

Petitioner alleges Justice Malik Shahzad Ahmad Khan for obstructing justice in murder case of his son

ISLAMABAD:

A petition has been filed against Lahore High Court (LHC) Chief Justice Malik Shahzad Ahmad Khan in the Supreme Judicial Council (SJC), seeking his dismissal over allegations of misconduct.

The petitioner, Rafaqat Ali Tanoli, accused the Chief Justice of obstructing justice in the murder case of his son, alleging misuse of office and influence. Tanoli's complaint, filed via mail on May 29 references a road accident and asserts that Justice Malik exerted his influence in the criminal case.

A related case is also currently under review in the Islamabad High Court (IHC), adding to the judicial scrutiny faced by the LHC Chief Justice.

The Judicial Commission of Pakistan has approved the nomination of LHC CJ Malik Shahzad Ahmad Khan as an SC judge by a majority of five to four.

The Parliamentary Committee on Judges Appointment has also approved his nomination. The notification for his appointment is likely to be issued soon after Eidul Azha.

Yesterday, CJ Shahzad said the establishment’s meddling in the affairs of the judiciary is coming to an end as the judiciary delivers justice without fear or greed.

Justice Khan noted that this was not the only complaint received by him about alleged interference of the executive in judicial matters. “A number of judges have made similar complaints verbally,” he said.