The Supreme Court of Pakistan temporarily suspended Punjab’s election tribunals. The decision was announced after the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) appealed against it. Also, a PTI leader’s objection against making the Chief Justice part of a larger bench was dismisCJ’s
CJ’s Statement on Respect for the Judiciary
Chief Justice Umar Ata Bandial has said that continuous disrespect towards the judiciary will not be tolerated. He said that the time of populist decisions is over, and courts do not work in accordance with popular wishes. Justice Jamal Khan Mandokhail also noted that people’s not run on peProceedings’es.
SC Proceedings’ Information
A five-member larger bench headed by Chief JuECP’s Bandial heard ECP’s appeal to the Lahore High Court’s decision to establish election Raja’s. Salman Akram Raja’s lawyer, Hamid Khan, requested adjournment while PTI lawyer, Niazullah Niazi, objected to the inclusion of CJ in the bench, which CJ rejected, citing concerns from his client.
Discussion on Election Commission’s Requirements
During the hearing, Chief Justice Bandial asked the ECP’s lawyer about the number of tribunals needed. The ECP’s lawyer responded that nine judges were required and emphasized the need for meaningful consultation rather than dictation. Justice Aqeel Abbasi inquired about the balance in consultation. Implying a need for mutual agreement between the ECP and the High Court.
Suspension of Notifications and Orders
The Supreme Court suspended the Lahore High Court’s single bench decision to establish eight election tribunals and the ECP’s notification dated April 26. The Court ordered that meaningful consultations between the ECP and the Lahore High Court should be conducted after the new Chief Justice of the Lahore High Court takes the oath.
Historical Context and Future Directions
The controversy began when the Lahore High Court nominated four additional judges for the tribunals on April 4, leading to a dispute. The ECP had requested a panel of judges from the Lahore High Court to form additional tribunals. The Supreme Court’s order highlighted the need to appoint the new Lahore High Court Chief Justice before the consultation process could proceed.
Conclusion and Next Steps
The Supreme Court adjourned further hearings indefinitely. Pending the completion of the consultation process following the appointment of the new Chief Justice of the Lahore High Court. This decision aims to ensure that the election tribunals are formed based on comprehensive. Balanced consultations between the involved parties.
