ISLAMABAD: The Supreme Court of Pakistan is all set to hear a petition today (Monday) filed by Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) regarding the delay in elections in Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
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A three-judges bench headed by Chief Justice of Pakistan Umar Ata Bandial and comprising Justice Ijaz-ul-Ahsan and Justice Muneeb Akhtar will hear the case.
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The ruling coalition has already announced to boycott the proceedings after their demand of forming a full court bench was rejected. Legal experts believe the boycott by present rulers would have zero impact on the case as the coalition partners were yet to become party.
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During the previous hearing held on Friday, it may be recalled, the apex court had rejected a request to form a full court and the Chief Justice remarked that there would be important news on Monday (today). Other political parties, including the People’s Party, Muslim League (N), and JUI, had requested to become a party in the case, but they request was yet to be accepted by the SC.
The Chief Justice of Pakistan highlighted that the government must provide security and funds for the elections. The AGP mentioned that the government is facing a deficit of Rs1,500 billion and the interest rate has increased by 13 percent, which is increasing the government’s debt. The judges asked the AGP to clarify if the elections could be postponed and how much money is available in the federal consolidated funds. The court adjourned the hearing and summoned the secretaries of finance and defense to appear before the court on Monday, April 3.
After discussing matters related to funds and security for elections, the court had summoned the secretaries of finance and defence for today before adjourning the proceedings.
Meanwhile, Islamabad Police have warned that only those who are litigants or have special entry permission would be able to enter into the Supreme Court premises on Monday.
