PTI’s demand that CJP recuse itself from party cases is condemned by PBC.
In its official statement, the PBC described the proposal as “unfortunate and unacceptable,” claiming that it was an attempt to weaken the judiciary’s independence and exert pressure on the CJP.
The council underlined that the CJP is an indisputable example of an unbiased and highly respected judge whose integrity is unquestioned.
The PBC further emphasized that any attempts to defame the CJP or the judiciary will be met with resistance since he has consistently defended the supremacy of the Constitution and the rule of law.
The council reaffirmed its dedication to preserving the values of the rule of law and an independent judiciary.
The Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) had earlier sought that Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) Qazi Faez Isa be removed from the benches where issues involving the party and its founder, Imran Khan, were being heard.
Statement after the PTI core committee’s demand, citing bias and impartiality issues, for CJP Qazi Faez Isa to recuse himself from PTI and Imran Khan-related cases.
The PTI claimed that there would be a “negative impact” on a fair trial as a result of the Chief Justice hearing their cases.
The demand was made on June 3, as the Supreme Court was deliberating over the Sunni Ittehad Council’s (SIC) request for reserved seats. The bench would be led by Pakistani Chief Justice Qazi Faez Isa.
It is relevant to note that Imran Khan appeared before the CJP Isa-led Supreme Court panel in a matter concerning revisions to the National Accountability (NAB) Ordinance 1999.