Non-Transparent Elections Undermine Democracy; Can a State Survive Without a Constitution? Asks Former CJP Saqib Nisar
**Islamabad (Qudrat Daily):** Former Chief Justice of Pakistan Saqib Nisar has said that all decisions taken during his tenure were aimed at public welfare. Addressing a ceremony, he raised a fundamental question: can a state survive without a constitution? He emphasized that if elections are not transparent, democracy cannot exist.
Saqib Nisar stressed that all judges take an oath to protect the fundamental rights of citizens, and it is essential to assess whether people are receiving those rights today. If not, he questioned whose responsibility it is to ensure their protection.
He further stated that Pakistan is currently facing severe water scarcity and warned that in the coming years, three issues would be no less than matters of life and death. Declaring the rule of law as the most crucial principle, he said that if the judiciary is allowed to function independently, the country’s direction can be set right.
The former chief justice also questioned whether the nation is fulfilling its duty to safeguard future generations.
It is noteworthy that following the sentencing of former DG ISI Faiz Hameed, voices have emerged suggesting that former Chief Justice Saqib Nisar should also face the law. He has been criticized over several controversial decisions made during his tenure.
