Supreme Court Justices Critique Election Commission's Interpretation

Supreme Court Justice Ather Minallah has expressed dissatisfaction with the Election Commission of Pakistan's misunderstanding of the Supreme Court's decision regarding PTI's intra-party polls. He has raised concerns about the court's responsibility to rectify the electoral watchdog's errors to prevent inadvertent endorsement or reliance on the doctrine of necessity. Justice Mansoor Ali Shah has emphasized the court's obligation to uphold absolute justice and address discrepancies without turning a blind eye.

During a recent hearing on reserved seats, Justice Munib Akhtar highlighted the crucial role of political parties in a parliamentary democracy and attributed the increase in independent candidates to the ECP's misinterpretation of the SC verdict. Justice Ayesha Malik echoed these concerns, emphasizing the confusion resulting from the ECP's incorrect understanding of the SC ruling.

The Attorney General has argued that only political parties, not independents, are entitled to reserved seats as per the Constitution. He has stressed the formation of parliamentary parties post the oath-taking by elected members and cited past court decisions to support his argument. The court has deliberated on the consequences of the ECP's actions and the necessity for clarity regarding parliamentary party eligibility.

Chief Justice Qazi Faez Isa has underscored the significance of aligning justice with the law and Constitution, cautioning against deviations. The justices have raised queries about the ECP's handling of the situation and the validity of its notifications. The Attorney General has suggested that the court could address the matter if presented before them.

The hearing has been adjourned by the court to further examine the case next week, with the aim of resolving the complexities surrounding party affiliations and reserved seats.

The Supreme Court's scrutiny of the Election Commission's interpretation of its rulings underscores the importance of clarity and adherence to legal principles in the electoral process. The ongoing deliberations seek to ensure fairness and transparency in parliamentary representation, ultimately aiming to uphold the integrity of democratic practices in Pakistan.