Politically Motivated Legislation
LAHORE: Taking a decisive stance against anticipated moves by the PML-N-led ruling coalition regarding judicial reforms, the PTI, as the principal opposition party, unequivocally declared its opposition to any “politically motivated legislation” aimed at extending the tenure of the nation’s top judge.
Senior PTI leader and former National Assembly speaker, Asad Qaiser, addressed Minister for Law and Justice Senator Azam Nazeer Tarar’s recent remarks, wherein Tarar hinted at potential constitutional amendments to alter the traditional approach to judicial appointments for both the Supreme Court and high courts. Tarar emphasized the desire to establish a “balance” in judge appointments.
In a video statement disseminated on his social media handle, Qaiser firmly stated, “We will not allow any such legislation. There are political motives behind it,” referencing the hinted amendments to judicial appointment laws and possible extension of the Chief Justice of Pakistan’s (CJP) service.
The discourse intensified following assertions by the law minister questioning the efficacy of the Parliamentary Committee on Judicial Appointments post the 19th Amendment to the Constitution, branding it as little more than a “rubber stamp.”
While not entirely dismissing proposals concerning CJP Qazi Faez Isa’s tenure, the minister acknowledged discussions regarding the possibility of fixed terms for the top judge, along with broader judicial reforms.
Echoing this sentiment, Adviser to the Prime Minister on Political and Public Affairs, Rana Sanaullah, advocated for setting a term limit for the CJP, aligning with proposals circulating on social media platforms.
CJP Isa, who assumed office in September 2023, is set to retire in October 2024 upon reaching the age of superannuation. If legislation were enacted to establish fixed terms for the Supreme Court’s chief justice, it could impact the incumbent’s tenure automatically.
PML-N Punjab chapter president, supported the idea of fixing the CJP’s term, citing the need for consistency across institutions. He highlighted instances in the past where CJPs held office for very brief periods.
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