Interior Minister Rana Sanaullah expressed his apprehension on Friday regarding the Supreme Court’s ruling on the trial of civilians in military courts. He feared that this decision, similar to the apex court’s ruling on Punjab elections on May 14, might also become a subject of controversy.
Addressing the National Assembly, Minister Sanaullah emphasized the importance of the court being perceived as fair and just. He referred to the ongoing hearing of petitions by a nine-member bench and raised concerns about its legitimacy due to two senior judges refusing to sit on the bench. The judges questioned its legality in light of the court’s stay order on the Supreme Court Practice and Procedure Act.
The minister highlighted the public perception of the Supreme Court, noting the analysis presented in the media. He mentioned a judge who would soon become the Chief Justice openly expressing doubts about the court’s credibility. Furthermore, Senior Puisne Judge Qazi Faiz Isa stated that the court lacked legal and constitutional status. Subsequently, a seven-member bench was immediately formed to hear the petitions.
Minister Sanaullah contended that the Constitution did not empower courts to suspend laws enacted by parliament. He argued that the Constitution does not stipulate that parliament deliberates on the law while the court issues a stay order.
Referencing a previous Supreme Court decision on holding elections to the Punjab Assembly on May 14, the minister recalled the subsequent events that unfolded. He mentioned the plea for a larger bench made by various parties, including parliament, but the Chief Justice issued the decision of a three-member bench instead. The minister warned that those involved in the events of May 9 would face legal consequences.
During the National Assembly session, Members of the National Assembly (MNAs) raised critical issues affecting their respective constituencies. Mir Amer Ali Khan Magsi highlighted the aftermath of last year’s floods, emphasizing the need for support in affected areas.
Salahuddin of the Mutttahida Qaumi Movement-Pakistan (MQM-P) expressed concerns about unscheduled power cuts in his constituency. Mohsin Dawar urged the government to increase the number of judges in the Peshawar High Court to improve the justice system.
Additionally, Rao Muhammad Ajmal Khan of the Pakistan Muslim League Nawaz (PML-N) called for the withdrawal of a 2% loan dedication imposed on small farmers.