The Supreme Court of Pakistan has adjourned the hearing on the plea to declare the February 8 elections null and void, after the request for withdrawal was accepted. Chief Justice Faisal Arab remarked that the case will be heard regardless and instructed the petitioner to present the application in court.
A three-member bench, headed by Chief Justice Faisal Arab and comprising Justice Muhammad Ali Mazhar and Justice Masood Hilali, was formed to hear the plea seeking the annulment of the elections held on February 8. The petition was filed by retired Brigadier Ali Khan, who requested investigations into electoral fraud and called for fresh elections in the country.
During the hearing, Chief Justice Faisal Arab inquired about the whereabouts of the petitioner, Ali Khan. Justice Muhammad Ali Mazhar noted that the petitioner had appealed for the withdrawal of the plea on February 13. This raised questions about whether the initial filing of the plea was merely for publicity purposes.
Chief Justice Faisal Arab emphasized that regardless of the petitioner’s actions, the case would proceed. He instructed the petitioner to be contacted via phone and to appear before the court again. Justice Masood Hilali clarified that the plea regarding elections was filed for television publicity.
Furthermore, Chief Justice Faisal Arab instructed the Additional Attorney General to serve a notice through the Ministry of Defense to Brigadier (Retired) Ali Khan, as the petitioner had identified himself as a former military officer.
The Supreme Court’s decision to adjourn the hearing reflects a commitment to due process and transparency in addressing electoral matters. While the withdrawal of the plea has been accepted, the court remains vigilant in ensuring that all legal proceedings are conducted appropriately. The case underscores the importance of upholding democratic principles and the rule of law in Pakistan’s electoral process.
