Chief Justice of Pakistan, Qazi Faez Isa, emphasized the harmonious coexistence of Parliament and the Supreme Court, echoing the sentiment, “live and let live.” He pointed out that both institutions should not be perceived as adversaries. The CJP stressed, “The world moves forward together, not antagonistically.”
Hearing on the Supreme Court’s Practice & Procedure Act, 2023
During a hearing of petitions challenging the Supreme Court (Practice & Procedure) Act of 2023, the Chief Justice led a full bench of 15 judges. This law, passed in April, determines the committee responsible for forming benches for constitutional matters.
Critics view it as an attempt to limit the chief justice’s powers. Attorney General for Pakistan, Mansoor Usman Awan, presented his arguments, defending the Parliament’s right to legislate and challenging the traditional role of the CJP as the “master of the roster”.
Throughout the proceedings, there were deliberations on whether the Parliament was competent to make such laws and if these laws were consistent with the Constitution. Justice Isa lamented the adverse impacts of decisions taken by the courts, including past endorsements of martial laws, urging for a balanced approach.
The Chief Justice emphasized the distinction between the government and Parliament, suggesting the Attorney General focus on the constitutional validity rather than criticize past court actions.
