PTI Lawyers Reject Constitutional Package in Lahore Convention

In a significant development in Pakistan's legal landscape, a convention of lawyers backed by the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) took place in Lahore on Thursday. This gathering was marked by a strong rejection of the proposed constitutional package, which many believe threatens the integrity of the Constitution. The lawyers at the convention voiced their concerns and called for the immediate appointment of Justice Syed Mansoor Ali Shah as the Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP).

The convention, organized by the Lahore High Court Bar Association (LHCBA), emphasized that the current National Assembly lacks the authority to introduce amendments to the Constitution. The participants argued that the proposed constitutional package undermines the fundamental structure of the Constitution and poses a risk to the nation’s stability. They insisted that the appointment of the CJP should adhere to the principle of seniority, demanding a formal notification for the senior puisne judge of the Supreme Court to assume the role of the next CJP.

Prominent figures at the convention included PTI Senator Hamid Khan, former presidents of the Supreme Court Bar Association such as Ali Ahmad Kurd, Senator Ali Zafar, and Abid Zuberi, along with Pakistan Bar Council member Ishtiaq A Khan and former vice president of the Lahore High Court Bar Association, Rabbiya Bajwa. Senator Hamid Khan was particularly vocal, criticizing the government's attempts to undermine the judiciary through the proposed constitutional package. He asserted that it is the responsibility of lawyers to uphold the Constitution, stating, "We are not ready to accept any Constitutional Court." He further claimed that a constitutional court would only be established over the lawyers' dead bodies.

Ali Ahmad Kurd echoed these sentiments, emphasizing that lawyers have historically resisted power and coercion. He pointed out the lack of courage among parliament members, noting that none dared to challenge the draft of the amendments, even as they remained in session until late at night. Kurd expressed disappointment that the rulers do not want Justice Syed Mansoor Ali Shah to become the next CJP, urging the government to reflect on its actions.

Senator Zafar raised concerns about the manner in which amendments were being introduced, stating he had never witnessed such a process without a proper presentation of the draft. He warned that these amendments could pave the way for horse-trading in parliament and increase the retirement age of judges. Furthermore, he claimed that the proposed changes might allow for the trial of civilians in military courts, a move that many see as a serious threat to civil liberties.

Abid Zuberi also voiced his opposition, arguing that the idea of establishing two courts is unacceptable. He insisted that there should only be one Supreme Court with a single Chief Justice, reinforcing the need for a unified judicial system.

The convention concluded with a rally from the high court bar to GPO Chowk at Mall Road, demonstrating the lawyers' solidarity against the proposed constitutional changes. This event highlights the ongoing tensions between the judiciary and the government in Pakistan, as well as the critical role that legal professionals play in safeguarding the Constitution.

As the situation unfolds, it remains crucial for citizens to stay informed about these developments. The legal community's resistance to perceived threats against the Constitution serves as a reminder of the importance of an independent judiciary in maintaining the rule of law and protecting democratic values in Pakistan.