Supreme Court Dismisses Review Petition Against Qazi Faez Isa

In a significant legal development, the Constitutional Bench of the Supreme Court of Pakistan has dismissed a review petition against former Chief Justice Qazi Faez Isa. This decision was made during a hearing held on Thursday, where a six-member bench, led by Justice Aminuddin, deliberated on the matter. The bench included Justices Jamal Mandokhel, Muhammad Ali Mazhar, Hassan Azhar Rizvi, Musarat Hilali, and Naeem Akhtar.

The case revolved around the legal standing of Qazi Faez Isa, who previously served as the Chief Justice of the Balochistan High Court. During the proceedings, Justice Jamal Mandokhel emphasized that the review petition could not be reopened, stating, "This is a review petition, and the case cannot be reopened." This assertion was met with a counterargument from the petitioner’s lawyer, who referenced the Supreme Court's willingness to revisit the Bhutto case after four decades.

Justice Musarat Hilali interjected, reminding the courtroom that the forum was not a place for political rhetoric or personal attacks, insisting that the discussions should remain focused on legal matters. "You cannot deviate from the law," she stated firmly. The atmosphere in the courtroom was tense, with Justice Muhammad Ali Mazhar questioning the petitioner’s lawyer about his apparent frustration, urging him to listen to the court's inquiries.

As the hearing progressed, Justice Aminuddin pointed out the importance of providing clear answers to the court's questions. He asked the petitioner’s lawyer why he was not responding adequately. In response, the lawyer claimed, "I am stating the facts to the court; I do not have the record but can be requested from Balochistan." This statement highlighted the complexities involved in the case, particularly regarding the need for proper documentation.

Justice Aminuddin further probed into the legal requirements for consultation with the Chief Minister, while Justice Musarat Hilali advised against personal attacks, suggesting that the matter should be left to Qazi Faez Isa himself. Justice Jamal Mandokhel concluded the session by indicating that he would recommend sending the matter to the Pakistan Bar Council for further consideration.

Ultimately, the constitutional bench dismissed the review petition against Qazi Faez Isa, marking a pivotal moment in this ongoing legal saga. It is essential to recognize that the Supreme Court of Pakistan continues to address various constitutional cases, reflecting the dynamic nature of the country's legal landscape.

This dismissal not only underscores the court's commitment to upholding legal protocols but also serves as a reminder of the complexities involved in judicial proceedings. As the legal community and the public observe these developments, it becomes increasingly clear that the rule of law remains a cornerstone of Pakistan's democracy, ensuring that justice is served while maintaining the integrity of the judicial system.