SC rejects PTI’s objection to bench hearing Article 63-A review petition

ISLAMABAD: The Supreme Court (SC) on Wednesday dismissed Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf’s (PTI) objection to a newly formed five-member bench hearing the review petition regarding the interpretation of Article 63-A of the Constitution.

The bench, led by Chief Justice of Pakistan Qazi Faez Isa, included Justices Ameenuddin, Jamal Mandokhel, Mazhar Alam Miankhail, and Naeem Afghan. The new bench was constituted following the recusal of Justice Munib Akhtar from the case.

During the proceedings, tensions rose when Mustafin Kazmi, representing PTI, was ordered to leave the courtroom by the Chief Justice after a heated exchange. “Call the police and remove him,” CJP Isa instructed after Kazmi’s remarks intensified the situation.

Kazmi, asserting PTI’s stance as an affected party, challenged the proceedings, claiming, “There are 300 lawyers outside, let’s see how the decision goes against us,” further escalating the charged atmosphere.

CJP Isa questioned Barrister Ali Zafar about the disruptions in court, stating that the judiciary would not tolerate disrespect or threats. Following this, Kazmi was forcibly removed from the courtroom.

Ali Zafar requested the court to first rule on the legitimacy of the bench before addressing the merits of the case. After deliberation, the bench rejected PTI’s objection. “Your objection to the bench is unanimously denied,” the judges announced.