Bushra Siddiqui

The Supreme Court issued a response on Tuesday to the letter sent by Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaaf (PTI) Chief Imran Khan to Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) Qazi Faez Isa. In the statement, the apex court affirmed its commitment to impartiality, stating that CJP Isa “would neither be pressurised nor favour anyone.” The court emphasized that CJP Isa will continue to fulfill his duties and uphold the oath of his office.

Imran Khan’s letter, dated November 30, urged the release of female prisoners arrested during the May 9 riots and called for the establishment of a commission to investigate the disappearances of journalists and PTI political workers. Additionally, Imran Khan requested the lifting of the media ban for “coverage without any restriction or discrimination.” The letter highlighted the importance of asserting Article 184(3) of the Constitution, safeguarding the right to liberty, association, assembly, and speech based on political affiliation.

The Supreme Court’s statement acknowledged the receipt of the 77-page “undated” document sent by Imran Khan, expressing surprise that the document had already been distributed to the media before reaching the chief justice’s office on December 1. The court noted misgivings, considering the political party on whose behalf the document was sent is well represented by advocates who recently handled significant cases in the Supreme Court.

The document, comprising a typed application, tabulated tables, and photocopies, totaled 84 pages, bound in a yellow paper book typically used for filings in the Supreme Court. The court raised concerns about the absence of identity and contact details of the advocate who prepared the document.

In its response, the Supreme Court assured that Justice Qazi Faez Isa is fully aware of his constitutional duties, emphasizing the court’s commitment to maintaining impartiality in its proceedings.