Chief Justice Criticism
KARACHI: President Arif Alvi defended himself days after Chief Justice Qazi Faez Isa criticism for transgressing the constitution by dissolving the National Assembly in April last year. In a detailed TV interview on Friday, President Alvi acknowledged the Supreme Court’s role in ensuring elections, appreciating Chief Justice Isa’s stance that the matter was now like a line etched in stone.
Regarding criticism about not providing a definitive election date, the president explained that he sought advice from the government and the law ministry, which advised against giving a date. Despite this, he mentioned that he provided a date to put the matter on record, quoting the government’s stance.
President Alvi addressed the Chief Justice’s judgment on the National Assembly dissolution, emphasizing that the criticism was based on a dissenting opinion from one judge, not a majority judgment. He clarified posting the election date issue on social media, stating he had first written a letter to the Chief Election Commissioner before sharing it on social media.
Expressing his opinion on Imran Khan’s actions, President Alvi remarked that Khan made a mistake assuming the constitution would remain paramount, and now it’s time to repair the damage for Pakistan’s democratic maturity. He stressed the need for fair, free, and credible elections and acknowledged the importance of institutions like the Election Commission and caretaker governments working together.
President Alvi highlighted the challenge of elite capture in Pakistan and the failure of leadership to tax the elite. He touched on the issue of Afghanistan, expressing personal upset over the perceived lack of appreciation for Pakistan’s generosity.
On political stability, he noted the country’s economy cannot progress without it and urged all political parties to compromise and avoid fighting for the nation’s unity. Responding to concerns about his recent statement on the absence of a level playing field, he emphasized the need for all parties to sit together and avoid conflict.
Regarding Imran Khan’s political fate, President Alvi deferred to the people, the law, and the courts, emphasizing Khan’s commitment to principles. Overall, the president called for unity and compromise among political parties for the country’s well-being.
