CJP Isa says looks like tactics are being used to delay elections

While hearing an appeal filed by the Election Commission of Pakistan, the Supreme Court has annulled the decision of the Peshawar High Court to suspend the appointment of the returning officer, reported 24NewsHD TV channel.

Chief Justice of Pakistan Justice Qazi Faez Isa on Tuesday heard the appeal of the ECP against the decision of the Peshawar High Court regarding suspension of the appointment of a returning officer.

During the hearing, Chief Justice Isa remarked that he thinks tactics are being used so that the elections do not take place.

He annulled the Peshawar High Court's decision to suspend the RO in Pakhtunkhwa Assembly constituency PK 91 Kohat.

The Chief Justice said: “You want to appoint a returning officer of your choice. I think some tactics are being used to avoid elections. One returning officer fell ill, another was posted. The Peshawar High Court suspended the appointment.”

The top judge went on to say, “Why we should not fine you, canceling the appointment without notice. The judge of Peshawar High Court did not consider it appropriate to issue a notice... I do not understand how the courts are making decisions without hearing the Election Commission. This is very strange. Do you want the entire election to stop? I don't understand why unnecessary applications are filed.”

Saying this, the court accepted the appeal of the Election Commission against the PHC decision.

The lawyer of the Election Commission told the court during the hearing that there were 31 candidates in PK 91 Kohat, out of which the documents of 12 candidates were scrutinized. Nomination papers of 19 candidates are to be scrutinized.

Reporter Amanat Gishkori