A heated scene unfolded in the Supreme Court of Pakistan on Wednesday during the hearing of the review petition challenging the interpretation of Article 63A of the Constitution.
The petition, filed by the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) saw a dramatic turn of events when Mustafin Kazmi — a PTI representative — was ordered to leave the courtroom by the Chief Justice after tensions escalated.
"Call the police and get this guy out," the Chief Justice directed following a verbal exchange with Kazmi.
Threat to CJP
Mustafin Kazmi asserting PTI's position as the affected party challenged the proceedings, stating, "There are 500 lawyers outside, let's see how the decision comes against us." His remarks added to the charged atmosphere in the courtroom.
SC rejects Barrister Ali Zafar objection on bench formation
The CJP Qazi Faez Isa led SC bench Barrister Ali Zafar objection on the bench formation.
Ali Zafar pleaded for judgment on bench legality before arguments on merits, upon which the bench members deliberated sitting in the courtroom themselves.
“Your objection to object is unanimously denied,” the SC judges announced the verdict.
During the hearing, first it should be decided whether the bench is legal or not.
“If this decision is made, I can give arguments only after that,” PTI lawyer Ali Zafar pleaded the court seeking clarification.
Barrister Ali Zafar's arguments
Barrister Ali Zafar representing PTI raised procedural objections during the hearing, arguing that the parties involved had not been properly notified. "In this case, it was necessary to issue notice to the parties," Zafar contended.
He also took issue with the composition of the bench, questioning its legality. "This bench is not legal," Zafar objected, further stating that it did not comply with the requirements of the amendment ordinance.
The Chief Justice in response reiterated the court’s stance noting that all parties had been invited to present their arguments.
"We said yesterday that whoever wants to come and give arguments should do so," the Chief Justice remarked.
'Do you want to embarrass SC judges'
Barrister Ali Zafar said Justice Mansoor Ali Shah did not come to the committee and wrote the letter.
Ali Zafar sought permission to read the letter of Justice Mansoor Ali Shah.
“You should read only the relevant paragraph of the letter,” Chief Justice Faiz Isa said.
“If you read that letter, you must also read the reply,” the CJP pointed out and remarked whether barrister Ali Zafar wanted to embarrass the judges in the court.
“Justice Mansoor spoke to the full court on the amendment ordinance,” Ali Zafar said.
