Senior journalist Najam Sethi, on his show Sethi Se Sawal on Samma, responded to Ayesha Naz’s question regarding the Chief Justice of Pakistan’s (CJP) charge sheet against Justice Muneeb, in light of Justice Mansoor’s letter. He noted that the issue is likely to persist due to the ongoing confrontation between Justice QFI and the next CJP.
He mentioned that the current CJP has the backing of several judges and parliament, while Justice Mansoor is supported by eight judges. He suggested that the faction aligned with Justice Mansoor could face defeat, leading to potential resignations or even a lawyers’ movement. Alternatively, those judges may reconsider their affiliations.
He also noted that the government remains firm in its plans to establish a constitutional court. Sethi stated that Justice Mansoor and his group would likely be barred from hearing constitutional cases, as the government perceives them as biased. He pointed out that Imran Khan is exerting pressure on this matter, emphasizing that the establishment has historically supported the judiciary, contributing to its successes. According to Sethi, judicial decisions cannot be implemented without this support.
Furthermore, Sethi added that the ongoing judicial matters would be resolved by the end of October. He remarked that while the Supreme Court can summon individuals for contempt of court, there may be no consequences if they fail to appear.
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He cautioned that the judges associated with Justice Mansoor should avoid escalating the situation, as it has become increasingly political.
Lastly, he expressed skepticism about the current concept of total justice, especially in light of reserved seats being allocated to the PTI without formal applications. He noted that all stakeholders are engaged in political maneuvering, with power concentrated on one side, and he concluded that the prospects for successful movements, including the lawyers’ struggle, appear limited in the current circumstances.
