Chief Justice Qazi Faez Isa affirmed on Monday that the Supreme Court is committed to “setting a better example” in the presidential reference seeking a review of the capital punishment awarded to former Prime Minister Zulfikar Ali Bhutto in 1979. The CJ stated that the court aims to address one person’s honor and rectify historical inaccuracies during the ongoing hearing.
Larger Bench and Reference Review: The larger bench, led by CJ Isa, resumed the hearing of the presidential reference, seeking to revisit the controversial death sentence of Bhutto. The court’s focus is on seeking justice and correcting historical perspectives.
Bhutto’s Execution and PPP’s Stance: Bhutto was executed on April 4, 1979, with his party, the PPP, terming it a “judicial murder.” Former President Asif Ali Zardari filed the presidential reference on April 2, 2011, under Article 186 of the Constitution to revisit Bhutto’s trial.
Previous Hearing Concerns: During the December 12, 2023, hearing, Justice Mansoor questioned the viability of the reference, noting that the court had already dismissed an appeal on the matter, which achieved finality.
Live Broadcast: The court proceedings were broadcast live on the official website and YouTube channel of the Supreme Court, ensuring transparency.
Representations and Amicus Curiae: PPP leader Senator Raza Rabbani and lawyer Zahid Ibrahim represented Bhutto’s family members. Amicus curiae Makhdoom Ali Khan initiated arguments and highlighted the importance of an interview transcript in the case.
Interview of Justice (Retd) Naseem Hasan Shah: The court played an interview of former judge Justice (Retd) Naseem Hasan Shah, emphasizing the historical context and challenges faced by the judiciary at that time.
Judicial Independence and Reference Comparison: Discussions centered on judicial independence, with comparisons made to the Samiullah Baloch case. The court emphasized the need to reexamine the case if justice was perceived to be “massacred.”
Adjournment and Future Hearing: The Supreme Court adjourned the hearing until the third week of February, aligning with the upcoming general elections.
Stay informed about the ongoing Bhutto case review, with updates on arguments, historical context, and the Supreme Court’s commitment to justice.
