ISLAMABAD: In a ten-page written order, the Supreme Court addressed cases seeking general elections within 90 days. The court emphasized that it had facilitated the President and the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) in fixing the election date.
According to the order, all parties involved agreed on the fixed date of February 8 for the elections. Chief Justice Qazi Faez Isa, who authored the decision, stated that it is time for the courts to avoid becoming embroiled in disputes that waste valuable time.
The written order further highlighted that the ECP did not provide a response to the President’s letter, and setting the date of elections is not within the jurisdiction of the Supreme Court as per the constitution.
The order warned of serious consequences if any institution exceeds its constitutional limits by interfering in the affairs of another. It also criticized the unnecessary involvement of the Supreme Court in the dispute between the President and the ECP, stating that some individuals had concerns about the possibility of elections not taking place.
Emphasizing the importance of upholding the constitution, the court reminded all constitutional bodies and officials, including the President and Chief Election Commissioner, of their obligation to be familiar with the constitution. It stressed that violating the constitution has a negative impact on both the people and the country’s integrity.
The written order also mentioned that Justice Mazhar Alam had left the issue of applying Article 6 to the Parliament. A notification regarding the election date has been issued with the consent of the President. The Supreme Court directed the federal and provincial governments to ensure the smooth completion of the election process on February 8, without any hindrance.
In a separate written order pertaining to the NAB law case, the Supreme Court stated that accountability courts are temporarily barred from making decisions on NAB references until a final verdict is reached on the appeals. However, the trials in corruption cases will continue. The appeals will be scheduled for hearing after the full court issues a detailed verdict on the Practice and Procedure Act.
Notices have been issued to the Attorney General of Pakistan and the Advocate Generals of the four provinces and federal capital Islamabad in relation to the NAB law case. The appeals were filed by the federation and others against the termination of NAB amendments.
The Supreme Court’s written orders emphasize the need to avoid unnecessary disputes, respect the constitution, and uphold democratic principles.
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