Mustafa Kamal calls SC's reserved seats decision 'blow to democracy'

MQM-P leader laments character less important than popularity in Pakistan, allowing individuals to act outside of law

Muttahida Qaumi Movement Pakistan (MQM-P) leader Mustafa Kamal has joined those criticising the Supreme Court's reserved seats decision, describing it as an irreparable blow to democracy, the constitution, and the rule of law.

Speaking at a press conference at the MQM headquarters in Karachi on Friday, Kamal stated that while MQM-P attempted to find positive aspects in the Supreme Court's ruling, the decision ultimately harmed democratic principles and constitutional integrity.

"This day will be remembered as a dark day in the history of justice," Kamal declared. He criticised the trend of making judicial decisions based on social media influence rather than the constitution, lamenting that popular figures can now insult national institutions and damage public property with impunity.

Kamal recalled that in 2018, then-chief justice Saqib Nisar disrupted the entire RTS system to facilitate the imposition of a government, with decisions reportedly made and communicated via WhatsApp. He expressed concern that such precedents erode the concept of justice and make it difficult to call out wrongdoings.

He pointed out that the Sunni Ittehad Council's leader contested the elections as an independent candidate, and according to the party's constitution, no minority representative could be part of this alliance. 

Also Read: Rana Sanaullah criticises Supreme Court's reserved seats decision favouring PTI

However, a so-called political party was merged into this alliance, leading to a legal battle for reserved seats. Despite this, today's decision favoured PTI, which was not even part of the case.

Kamal also referenced the events of May 9, criticising the accusations and defamation against state leaders on social media, which presented them as enemies of the country. He stressed that individuals from Karachi would never entertain such thoughts as the judiciary does not support them.

He lamented the double standards faced by MQM-P workers, who are harshly reprimanded even when innocent, while popular figures are praised with phrases like "good to see you." 

Kamal voiced his frustration, stating that the last glimmer of hope had shattered, leaving no justification for punishing less popular individuals with minor offenses while offering leniency based on popularity.

He reiterated that in Pakistan, character is less important than popularity, allowing individuals to act beyond the constitution and law. 

He clarified that MQM-P is not criticising anyone but exercising its constitutional right to express its opinion while party supporters question when they will receive equal rights in judicial treatment.