Lifetime disqualification determined on perception, not Constitution: CJP Faez Isa

Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) Qazi Faez Isa, during the hearing of a case related to the lifetime disqualification of lawmakers under Article 62(1)(F), emphasized that the interpretation of such disqualifications is based on one’s own perception rather than the Constitution. The seven-member bench, led by CJP Isa, is overseeing the case, and Attorney General for Pakistan (AGP) Mansoor Usman Awan appeared before the court.

Lawyers Reema Omar, Azir Bhandari, and Faisal Siddiqui were appointed as amici curiae in the case. During the hearing, CJP Isa warned against creating confusion regarding elections, especially as polls are scheduled for February 8. He expressed concerns that filing cases in different courts could hinder the electoral process.

The chief justice grilled lawyer Khurram Raza, who was representing petitioners Fayaz Ahmed Ghori and Sajjadul Hasan, for his defense of lifetime disqualification for parliamentarians. CJP Isa even remarked that the counsel appeared to be siding with “dictators.” Raza argued that a constitutional amendment is required to end lifelong disqualification, prompting a response from Justice Jamal Khan Mandokhail, who questioned whether the Parliament lacks the authority to legislate. Raza clarified that while Parliament legislates, the Supreme Court interprets the legislation.