Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) Qazi Faez Isa directed PTI lawyer Latif Khosa not to level baseless allegations against constitutional bodies during Monday’s hearing. The court was addressing PTI’s petition against the ECP for violating directions related to a ‘level playing field’ in the upcoming elections. CJP Isa, heading the bench, insisted on evidence to substantiate the allegations.
PTI was accused of conspiracies to keep them out of the Feb 8 elections. In response, the ECP noted that 76% of PTI’s nomination papers were approved, contradicting the party’s claims of an unjust electoral environment.
The court set Jan 11 as the date to hear PTI’s plea for the restoration of its electoral symbol and adjourned the contempt petition proceedings to Jan 15.
PTI lawyers claimed mistakes in a report sent by the Chief Secretary, but CJP Isa asked them to present evidence in court if they believed otherwise. He emphasized focusing on facts and law rather than unfounded accusations.
Khosa accused PTI candidates of receiving harsh treatment and having no fair campaigns. CJP Isa urged him to concentrate on facts and avoid interruptions, accusing the lawyer of having ulterior motives. The judge reminded Khosa to appreciate institutions like the ECP, established by Parliament.
The PTI lawyer sought approval for a legal campaign during elections due to Section 144 and public order laws. CJP Isa clarified the court’s role, stating it wouldn’t interfere with the ECP’s functioning unless there was a constitutional or legal violation.
Khosa requested time to respond to the ECP’s report, and an adjournment date was set for Jan 15. CJP Isa assured that the court would handle a valid petition or complaint. The article concluded by stating that PTI’s appeal regarding the restoration of its electoral symbol would be heard from Jan 11.
