It seems that the relations between political leadership and judicial system are worsening. On Wednesday, Speaker National Assembly Raja Pervez Ashraf sent a letter to Chief Justice Umar Atta Bandyal regarding election expenses. In the letter, the Speaker has clearly shown that political leadership does not want the involvement of judiciary in matters of National Assembly.
Raja Pervez Ashraf wrote that the 3-member bench ignored the steps taken by the National Assembly. He pointed out that the bench has no authority to issue orders for releasing funds in disregard of constitutional provisions.
He further added that courts can interpret the Constitution but cannot rewrite it. Raja Pervez Ashraf believed that fixating to release funds for elections has caused unnecessary confrontation. Speaker NA wrote that Judiciary should not interfere in the authority of others, and it is necessary that every institution must stay within its limits.
The letter concluded that everyone must work together to uphold the Constitution & protect democratic values. The speaker stated that the Judiciary targeted the same politicians who defended it in a difficult situation, and Supreme Court should avoid involving in political disputes.
Supreme Court Hearing
Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) Umar Ata Bandial will resume hearing the election delay suo motu at 11:30 am on Thursday (27 April 2023). So far the political parties have failed to negotiate and decide the date for elections as directed by the Supreme Court.
The court gave a chance to the stakeholders to reach an agreement and directed the political parties to initiate talks. The apex court asked to submit the outcomes of the discussions by April 27.
Political parties were asked to quickly decide the matter. It is pertinent to mention that Supreme Court upheld its decision to hold elections on May 14.