- Supreme Court of Pakistan to review controversial Practice and Procedure Act.
- Chief Justice Isa leads a 15-member bench in this critical case.
- Legislation restricts top judge’s powers, sparking legal debate.
On September 17, 2023, the Supreme Court of Pakistan, announced that it would commence hearings on a petition challenging. the Supreme Court (Practice and Procedure) Act. The proceedings are schedule for Monday. Chief Justice Qazi Faez Isa will lead a 15-member full court bench. Addressing the review petitions against this contentious legislation, which was introduced by the coalition government.
The case, currently pending with the apex court, will hear on Chief Justice Isa’s very first working day. Earlier this year, a larger bench led by former Chief Justice Umar Ata Bandial suspended the enforcement of the Supreme Court (Practice & Procedure) Act, 2023, on April 13. This act had restricted the powers of the top judge, to initiate suo motu proceedings in an individual capacity.
The PDM alliance approved the legislation. It introduced a mechanism with a three-member committee forming benches, and majority votes deciding in disagreements.
In August this year, Justice Mansoor Ali Shah advises the Chief Justice to halt cases under Article 184(3) of the Constitution until deciding the fate of the Supreme Court (Practice and Procedure) Act, 2023.
The upcoming hearings are crucial in Pakistan’s legal landscape as the Supreme Court assesses the controversial legislation’s impact on judiciary powers.