Justice Sultan Tanvir Ahmed of the Lahore High Court has withdrawn from hearing a case challenging the Election Amendment Act 2024.
The case was brought forward by Munir Ahmed, who argues that the new amendments to the Election Act aim to overturn a Supreme Court decision on reserved seats and should not be applied retrospectively.
Munir Ahmed’s petition asserts that the recent changes introduced by the Election Amendment Act are unconstitutional and infringe upon democratic principles and fundamental rights. Specifically, it contends that these amendments are ultra vires, meaning they exceed the legal authority granted by the Constitution.
During the proceedings, Justice Sultan observed that the case involves a complex interpretation of the Supreme Court’s previous ruling. Given his unavailability at the LHC Principal Seat, he decided to refer the matter to the Acting Chief Justice for further adjudication.
The petition, filed by Advocate Azhar Siddique, includes the federal government, the Election Commission, and several political parties as respondents.
Munir Ahmed requests that the court declare the Election Amendment Act 2024 unconstitutional.
Additionally, he seeks an injunction to prevent any party other than PTI from receiving reserved seats until a final judicial determination is made.
Justice Sultan’s recusal has shifted the responsibility of reviewing this significant legal challenge to the Acting Chief Justice, highlighting the ongoing debate over the legality and implications of the recent amendments to the Election Act.
