Imran Khan Backs Justice Mansoor Ali Shah for Chief Justice of Pakistan

In a significant political development, Imran Khan, the jailed founder of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), has publicly expressed his party's unwavering support for Justice Mansoor Ali Shah to be appointed as the next Chief Justice of Pakistan. This statement was made during an informal interaction with journalists at Adiala Jail in Rawalpindi on Wednesday. Khan emphasized the urgency of announcing the next chief justice, stating, "The appointment of the next chief justice should be announced soon. [We] completely back Justice Mansoor Ali Shah."

Khan's remarks come in the wake of ongoing tensions surrounding the judiciary and the government's attempts to influence its structure. He criticized the current government, claiming that it is "bent on destroying the judiciary" and is attempting to install judges who would facilitate electoral fraud in the upcoming 2024 elections. The former prime minister's comments reflect a broader concern among PTI supporters regarding the integrity of the judicial system in Pakistan.

The backdrop to Khan's statements includes a controversial constitutional package proposed by the ruling coalition, which allegedly seeks to extend the retirement ages of high court and supreme court judges. This proposal has raised eyebrows, especially as Chief Justice Qazi Faez Isa is set to retire in October this year. The PTI had previously requested an early notification for the appointment of the next chief justice, highlighting the urgency of the situation.

Despite the ruling Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) claiming to have the necessary support to pass the constitutional amendments, the introduction of these amendments has been postponed. This delay is attributed to the refusal of Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F) to support the coalition, leaving the government short of the required votes in both the National Assembly and the Senate. The ruling coalition needs 224 votes in the National Assembly and 64 in the Senate to pass the amendments, but currently holds only 211 members against the opposition's 101.

Political dynamics are further complicated by the JUI-F's leader, Maulana Fazlur Rehman, who has expressed reluctance to back the amendments, viewing them as a means to protect the coalition government. In contrast, PML-N leaders, including Adviser on Political and Public Affairs Rana Sanaullah, have indicated a desire to reach a "minimum consensus" among political parties regarding the proposed judiciary-centric amendments. This includes the establishment of a constitutional court, a proposal that PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto has vowed to push forward.

As the political landscape continues to evolve, the consultation process among various political factions remains ongoing. The PPP and JUI-F are reportedly working on their draft amendments, which could be discussed in upcoming sessions after Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif returns from the United States. The government aims to table the constitutional package once a consensus is achieved.

The situation surrounding the judiciary in Pakistan is fraught with tension and uncertainty. Imran Khan's endorsement of Justice Mansoor Ali Shah as the next Chief Justice underscores the critical nature of judicial independence in the face of political maneuvering. As the country approaches the 2024 elections, the integrity of the judiciary will be paramount in ensuring a fair electoral process. The unfolding events will undoubtedly shape the future of Pakistan's political landscape, making it essential for citizens to stay informed and engaged in these crucial discussions.