Justice Isa responds to criticism over participation in NA ceremony
Pakistan
Says he was assured of no political speeches at convention
ISLAMABAD (Web Desk) – Clearing the air about his participation in the golden jubilee ceremony of the Constitution that received criticism, Senior Puisne Judge of the Supreme Court Justice Qazi Faez Isa issued an explanation saying he was given assurance that no political speeches will be made in the assembly.
Justice Faez Isa said he would had preferred to sit in the guest gallery but was shown respect for being a member of the judiciary by the elected representatives of the people.
Justice Isa stated that all the judges were invited to the ceremony held in Parliament and before accepting the invitation, inquiries were made as to whether there would be political speeches, and assurances were extended that only the Constitution and its making would be spoken about.
Justice Isa maintained that he accepted the invitation after the programme was confirmed to him personally. He said he had been asked if he would like to speak and he had declined. However, when political statements were made (in a few of the speeches), he requested to speak to correct any misconceptions that might arise, and he did so.
Senior judge of the Supreme Court expressed his surprise over the objections that where he sat and his presence at the function to commemorate the Constitution.
“I would have preferred to sit in the hall on one side or in the gallery, but respect was shown to a member of the judiciary by seating me at the centre; I did not choose to sit there,” he maintained.
On Monday, Senior Puisne Judge of the Supreme Court had reassured the people by emphasising the commitment of the apex court judges to uphold the Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan in order to safegaurd principles of democracy and constitutionalism in the country.
Speaking at a convention in connection with the Golden Jubilee celebrations of the 1973 Constitution, he said he on behalf of his institution he wanted to give assurance that the apex court was standing with sacred document of the Constitution.
He said after the blessings of Allah Almighty, they had the blessings of the Constitution, and it was recognized by all.
