ISLAMABAD: A crucial consultation meeting of the judges of Pakistan’s Supreme Court is currently underway in the chamber of Chief Justice Qazi Faez Isa in response to allegations of pressure and election manipulation by the Rawalpindi commissioner, according to media reports.
The aim of the meeting is to address the allegations raised by Commissioner Liaquat Ali Chattha.
The judges participating in the consultation meeting included Justice Muneeb Akhtar, Justice Yahya Afridi, Justice Ayesha Malik, and Justice Athar Minallah. The primary focus of the gathering was reportedly reviewing the accusations put forth by the Rawalpindi commissioner.
These allegations, which have garnered widespread attention, are being meticulously reviewed by the judges. Following extensive deliberations, a decision will be reached regarding whether formal notice of the allegations should be taken or not, according to reports.
Meanwhile, the Supreme Court Bar Association (SCBA) has urged the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) to conduct a transparent investigation into the allegations.
A statement issued by the SCBA asserts that Commissioner Liaquat Ali Chattha’s actions have attempted to tarnish the office of the Chief Justice, emphasizing that the CJP holds no role in overseeing elections.
Earlier, on Saturday, Rawalpindi Commissioner Chattha resigned amidst revelations of electoral malpractice. In a series of dramatic statements, Chattha expressed remorse for his actions, acknowledging shame and a desire for redemption.
He confessed to feeling ashamed of his responsibilities while on election duty, expressing a belief that severe consequences should be faced for his alleged misconduct. Additionally, he disclosed incidents of presiding officers expressing distress in his presence and revealed an attempted suicide following morning prayers, citing a desire to prevent a recurrence of past events.
“I am unburdening my conscience,” Chattha stated solemnly.
