Lifetime Disqualification: Will focus on Constitutional Interpretation, not individual , CJP
PTI wants 100% nomination papers to be approved?
Islamabad, Jan 5,2024: Supreme Court of Pakistan has initiated the hearing of a case pertaining to the interpretation of Article 62 1F, emphasizing its commitment to addressing constitutional intricacies rather than individual electoral cases.
Chief Justice Qazi Faiz Isa, heading a distinguished 7-member bench, stated during the proceedings that the court intends to delve into the broader constitutional context rather than being confined to specific electoral disputes.
The bench comprises Justice Mansoor Ali Shah, Justice Yahya Afridi, Justice Aminuddin Khan, Justice Jamal Mandukhel, Justice Mohammad Ali Mazhar, and Justice Musrat Hilali, reflecting a diverse and experienced panel.
Jahangir Tareen’s counsel, Makhdoom Ali Khan, commenced arguments during the hearing. When questioned by Justice Mansoor Ali Shah about the source of disqualification, Khan asserted that according to their interpretation, the declaration of disqualification should originate from the civil court. He argued that no one’s fundamental constitutional rights should be terminated for life based solely on a civil court decision. He cited the absence of such examples in common law and highlighted that rectifying outstanding utility bills could reinstate eligibility.
Justice Muhammad Ali Mazhar sought clarification on whether Article 62 could be applied before or after elections. Khan responded by asserting that Articles 62 and 63 could lead to disqualification even before elections, underscoring the importance of these constitutional provisions.
