The Supreme Court of Pakistan has established a seven-member bench to adjudicate on the matter concerning the lifelong disqualification of politicians under Article 62(1)(f) of the Pakistani Constitution.
Chief Justice Qazi Faez Isa will lead the seven-member bench, which includes Justice Mansoor Ali Shah, Justice Yahya Afridi, Justice Aminuddin, Justice Jamal Mandokhail, Justice Mohammad Ali Mazhar, and Justice Musarrat Hilali. The bench is scheduled to hear the case on Tuesday at 11:30 am.
In 2017, the Supreme Court had disqualified PMLN leader Nawaz Sharif and Istehkam-e-Pakistan Party leader Jahangir Tareen from holding public office under Article 62(1)(f).
Article 62(1)(f) of the Constitution outlines the qualifications for individuals seeking parliamentary positions, stating that a person cannot be elected unless they are sagacious, righteous, non-profligate, honest, and ameen, with no contrary declaration by a court of law.
While disqualification under other laws for serious crimes exists, the consequences under Article 62(1)(f) are more severe, resulting in a lifetime ban. Unlike disqualifications under other laws, which have a five-year restriction, the disqualification under Article 62(1)(f) is permanent.
Nawaz Sharif’s disqualification in 2017 was based on the Supreme Court’s determination that he failed to meet the criteria of being honest and ameen, as he concealed potential income from his son’s company.
A recent law passed by the parliament, controlled by the PDM, reduced the disqualification period to five years for all individuals. However, uncertainties persist.
PTI leaders argue that despite Nawaz Sharif’s acquittal, he remains disqualified from holding public office and, consequently, cannot serve as a member of parliament or prime minister.
