Summary Consultation and electoral reforms are two different things, says CJP.
ISLAMABAD (Dunya News) – Supreme Court, on Thursday, rejected opposition leader Khursheed Shah’s plea seeking 3 months for the appointment of Chief election Commissioner (CEC) and ordered to appoint CEC by November 13 regardless of electoral reforms.
During the hearing Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) Justice Nasirul Mulk remarked that the position of a permanent CEC is vacant for a year which is affecting the matters of Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP).
CJP said CEC is a constitutional status and its appointment is a constitutional obligation.
Electoral reforms have just begun; where were the consultations for the past one year and why hasn’t the opposition leader been active for the appointment, he added.
CJP stated that appointment of CEC is an old issue and that consultation and electoral reforms are two different things.
Aitzaz Ahsan argued a problem may arise after the electoral reforms as the procedure to appoint CEC might also change to which Justice Nasirul Mulk responded that constitutional amendment would be dealt with, so CEC should be appointed according to the present provisions.
CJP asked the Attorney General if Prime Minister too needs time for the appointment of CEC like the opposition leader.
Attorney General expressed ignorance and assured that everything would be done according to court orders.
CJP responded that means PM needs no time.
Earlier, Khursheed Shah in National Assembly has requested for a three months extension from SC on October 28.
Khursheed Shah had submitted his response to the SC through Aitzaz Ahsan stating that CEC is a constitutional designation and the appointment should be done with the consent of PM and opposition leader.
He further added that consultation of appropriate names for the nomination with PM is underway and they want all parliamentary parties to join the consultation process.
Recommendation for legislator’s monitoring on appointment procedure is also under consideration, he added.
SC had ordered to appoint CEC by October 28.
