Supreme Court Overturns Lahore High Court’s Decision on Election Tribunals in Punjab

Islamabad:The Supreme Court of Pakistan has annulled the Lahore High Court’s decision regarding the formation of election tribunals in Punjab, originally made on June 12, 2024. The ruling was announced by Chief Justice Qazi Faiz Isa and supported by a unanimous five-member bench.

The bench included Justices Ameenuddin Khan, Jamal Mandokhel, Naeem Akhtar Afghan, and Aqeel Abbasi. The Supreme Court accepted the Election Commission’s appeal against the Lahore High Court’s ruling, stating that the single judge’s decision could not be used as a judicial precedent.

Justice Mandokhel and Justice Abbasi provided additional notes expressing their agreement with the verdict. The court highlighted that the Lahore High Court had failed to consider the lack of meetings between the Chief Election Commissioner and the Chief Justice, which should have influenced the decision.

This ruling comes after the Election Commission challenged the Lahore High Court’s decision to form additional tribunals for electoral disputes, arguing that while other provinces received adequate tribunals, Punjab was underserved.

During the proceedings, PTI lawyer Hamid Khan raised objections to Chief Justice Isa’s inclusion in the bench, which were dismissed by the Chief Justice. The court emphasized the need for collaboration between the Election Commission and the High Court to address electoral matters effectively.

Chief Justice Isa remarked on the necessity of resolving disputes amicably and maintaining the integrity of institutions. He also stressed the importance of timely decisions regarding electoral complaints, aiming for stability in the country.

This ruling reinforces the principle that while the judiciary has oversight, collaboration among institutions is vital for ensuring fair electoral processes in Pakistan.