Supreme Court Nullifies Article 63-A Decision: A Turning Point for Pakistani Politics

Islamabad:In a significant ruling, the Supreme Court of Pakistan has declared the previous interpretation of Article 63-A as null and void. Chief Justice Qazi Faiz Isa announced the decision, stating that the appeals are approved, with a detailed judgment to follow later.

The verdict has sparked diverse reactions on social media. One user shared a video clip of former President Arif Alvi, in which he criticized Justice Isa for allegedly making “criminal decisions,” suggesting that the ruling creates an environment for buying votes.

Chaudhry Moonis Elahi, a senior leader of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf party, expressed his concerns on X (formerly Twitter), stating that the Supreme Court’s ruling effectively allows for horse-trading in politics, a decision that will be remembered in history.

Conversely, Mohsin Baig praised the five-member bench’s decision, calling it a positive and encouraging development. He argued that the previous interpretation of Article 63-A, which restricted lawmakers from voting according to their conscience during no-confidence motions, was unconstitutional and against parliamentary democracy.

Another user noted that the Supreme Court’s ruling, which nullified the unconstitutional and politically motivated decision regarding Article 63-A, marks a significant moment in history.

Zeeshan Khan warned that allowing lawmakers to change their allegiance without consequence undermines the democratic foundation of the country. He cautioned that public votes could become a bargaining chip, leading to potential political slavery.

This ruling comes after a previous decision on May 17, 2022, where the Supreme Court had ruled that votes cast by dissenting members against party policy would not be counted, and that the determination of disqualification durations should be made by Parliament.

As reactions unfold, the future implications of this ruling on Pakistan’s political landscape remain to be seen.