SC tells political parties to end ongoing crisis as per law

CJ clarifies he has no understanding with PTI chief Imran Khan

ISLAMABAD: The Supreme Court on Tuesday issued notices to 15 political parties including Pakistan Awami Tehreek (PAT) to resolve the ongoing political impasse in a constitutional manner. 

A four-judge bench of the apex court headed by Chief Justice of Pakistan Nasirul Mulk heard a petition filed by Lahore High Court Rawalpindi bench President Shafqat Bhatti, seeking that all the political parties be directed to resolve the current political issue within the parameters of the Constitution. While issuing notices to parties mentioned in the petition, the bench also asked the petitioner to add names of other parties that are also part of the parliament.

The petition sought court's intervention stating that there is a lack of trust among political parties while there is an immediate need to handle the critical situation, adding that the situation has reached a point where the court should step in to protect the constitution.

PAT counsel Ali Zafar, however, opposed this suggestion to which the Chief Justice replied that it is not only a political dispute but also a constitutional matter.

CJ's clarification

During the hearing, the chief justice also clarified his position regarding PTI President Javed Hashmi’s claim yesterday that the incumbent CJP had an understanding with PTI chief Imran Khan in toppling the PML-N government.

The chief justice rejected Hashmi’s claim, adding that he had no direct or indirect understanding with PTI chief Imran Khan in this regard.

He said that he had met Imran Khan only once regarding the introduction of biometric polling system in local government elections in KP and petitions pending in election tribunals when he was acting Chief Election Commissioner, adding that Secretary Election Commission of Pakistan and three other PTI members were part of the meeting.

Justice Jawwad S Khawaja added that individuals do not matter as the whole bench decides the case in the apex court.

Justice Anwar Zaheer Jamali commented that it has become a feature of our society to level baseless allegations against institutions to malign them, without any concern of consequences.

He also expressed concern over the attack on PTV headquarters and other state buildings yesterday. “We have shown restraint in this matter,” he added.

During the hearing, the PTI counsel Hamid Khan requested the bench to exercise its suo moto power to end the ongoing political impasse.

Justice Mian Saqib Nisar made it clear that whenever there will be an issue of political justice, the court will intervene, adding that that it is the apex court that should decide the scope of fundamental rights.

The hearing of the case was adjourned until tomorrow.