SC issues notices to Top law officers over reference on Senate elections

The Supreme Court on Monday issued notices to the advocate-generals of all four provinces, and Islamabad, speakers of all provincial assemblies, and Election Commission in the presidential reference on holding Senate elections through a show of hands.

According to the details, a five-member bench headed by Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) Gulzar Ahmed also issued notices to the speakers of all provincial assemblies, speaker of the National Assembly, Chairman Senate, and the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP).

Attorney General of Pakistan Khalid Jawed Khan had on Dec 23 moved the 11-page reference under Article 186 of the Constitution relating to the advisory jurisdiction of the Supreme Court.

The president had sought the court’s advice on whether the condition of the secret ballot under Article 226 of the Constitution applied to the Senate elections.

During today’s hearing, the larger in short order also directed that notices be published in newspapers to seek the public’s opinion on the matter.

In addition to this, the apex court also asked senior advocate, Hadi Shakeel, from Quetta to appear and assist the court as amicus curiae (An amicus curiae is someone who is not a party to a case who assists a court by offering information, expertise, or insight that has a bearing on the issues in the case. The decision on whether to consider an amicus brief lies within the discretion of the court).

The bench directed AG Khalid Jawed Khan and provincial advocates general to submit written synopses to the court.

Any other party interested in being a part of the case can also file petitions in the Supreme Court, the order said. After hearing the arguments the case has been adjourned till Jan 11.