Chief Justice of Pakistan, Qazi Faez Isa, raised concerns about former National Assembly deputy speaker Qasim Khan Suri. On Tuesday, he questioned if Suri should face legal proceedings for possibly breaching the Constitution. This was about Suri proroguing the assembly session without a vote on a no-confidence motion against ex-premier Imran Khan.
Supreme Court’s Observations and Subsequent Actions
The Supreme Court had previously criticized Suri’s ruling as contrary to the Constitution. This week, CJP Isa, leading a three-judge bench, summoned Suri to present a concise statement in the upcoming month. Additionally, the court demanded a report on why Suri’s appeal against his de-seating remained unresolved. Despite senior counsel Naeem Bukhari’s argument that the case was now irrelevant due to Suri’s resignation, CJP Isa expressed concern over the delay in handling the case and Suri’s continued enjoyment of privileges as deputy speaker.
CJP Isa regretted Suri’s role in causing a constitutional crisis. He criticized manipulating the Supreme Court’s internal system to delay the case. Due to discrepancies, Isa hinted that the court might review the 2018 election process. He emphasized the need for accountability for anyone violating the Constitution and expressed commitment to ending interference in the Supreme Court’s internal affairs.
