Defence Minister Khawaja Asif delivered a strongly worded speech in the National Assembly, criticizing what he called years of judicial overreach and politically motivated decisions.
Speaking after parliament passed key constitutional amendments, he urged lawmakers to protect parliamentary supremacy and resist what he described as attempts by certain judges to influence politics.
Khawaja Asif said he did not want to “increase bitterness” but needed to present his perspective. He reminded the House that “exactly eight years ago” the process of removing Nawaz Sharif from office began, accusing sections of the judiciary of playing a role in what he termed a “conspiracy.”
He said the entire chain of events started with the Panama Papers, when then–chief justice of Pakistan Saqib Nisar formed two benches. After Nawaz Sharif’s disqualification, another bench was formed, which later made the disqualification for life.
Claims of judicial bias, involvement in political cases
According to Asif, the same judges kept appearing in political cases, were linked to matters such as the Bani Gala regularisation and the dam fund, and continued to shape political outcomes.
“When the issue of suo motu powers arose, the chief justice was given unprecedented authority,” he said, arguing this contributed to judicial overreach.
He noted that two judges have resigned after Parliament passed recent amendments, adding: “When verdicts were given against Nawaz Sharif, their conscience did not awaken.”
He further remarked that some judges had now begun “writing poetry” instead of focusing on their constitutional responsibilities.
Parliament’s amendment turning point
Khawaja Asif said the House had passed an amendment that would “determine the path of the future” and restrict the unchecked powers of the Supreme Court.
“This House has curbed their monopoly,” he said. He criticized the judiciary for remaining silent when 52 laws were passed in one night in the past. “Where was their honour that night?” he asked.
The minister made strong remarks about Pakistan’s security challenges, saying militants “come from across the border and commit terrorism,” while some political actors sympathised with them.
Referring to a tragic incident involving 655 children in Wana Cadet College and a suicide bombing in Islamabad, he said all facilitators had now been arrested. He urged institutions and political forces to decide “whether they stand with Pakistan or with terrorists.”
He accused some elements of wanting to restore the “system of dacoity” that he said existed during the “founder’s era” of PTI, alleging that “their entire family was involved in robbery.”
Pakistan’s forces praised for defending country
Asif highlighted the role of Pakistan’s armed forces, stating: “Pakistan’s forces protected the country’s air and waters and created new history.”
Pointing toward PTI lawmakers, he remarked that “two and a half tots” were sitting in the House, criticizing their political role and actions.
