Courts and the law, from The Thursday Times' court reporter.
The Islamabad High Court has issued a verdict on the petition against the PTI's 24th November protest, directing the administration not to permit any protest that violates the Public Order Act 2024 or disturbs peace. The court also instructed the formation of a committee to hold negotiations with the PTI.
Qazi Faez Isa becomes the first Pakistani elected as a Middle Temple Bencher, marking a new era for Pakistan’s influence in international law.
President Zardari has signed the 26th Constitutional Amendment Act into law, and the NA Secretariat has issued a gazette notification. The Amendment, which was passed with a two-thirds majority in both the Senate and the NA, has now been enacted into law.
The Senate of Pakistan passed the 26th Constitutional Amendment Bill by a two-thirds majority, marking a historic milestone in the country’s legislative process. The bill, presented by Law Minister Azam Nazir Tarar, encountered no opposition and received overwhelming support across all clauses.
"The Chief Justice will be selected from the top 3 judges, and the term of service will be 3 years. Constitutional benches will be established at the Supreme Court level. One Chief Justice opened the door to suo motu cases, leading to the dismissal of elected Prime Ministers. We need to put an end to this practice," says Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar.
The Supreme Judicial Council recommended terminating Justice Mazahar Ali Akbar Naqvi for misconduct, following his resignation and a subsequent scandal that also saw Justice Ijazul Ahsan resign.
The apex court in Pakistan adjourned the hearing of petitions against the Supreme Court (Practice and Procedure) Act, 2023, delving into discussions on legislative and judicial powers, and dismissed a civil review petition concerning tax assessment amendments.
The Supreme Court deems Imran Khan's arrest unlawful and directs him to approach the Islamabad High Court, raising concerns over the dignity of the court and the need for access to justice.
