The Supreme Court on Wednesday rejected PTI leader Shibli Faraz’s plea to suspend the Senate election on his vacant seat. A five-member constitutional bench, led by Justice Amin-ud-Din Khan, heard the petition. The bench nullified the Peshawar High Court’s earlier decision and disposed of the case, directing the High Court to decide on Faraz’s pending petition.
During the hearing, PTI chairman Barrister Gohar requested a halt to the election scheduled for Thursday. He argued that PTI was unfairly removed from two constitutional offices and needed more time. The bench, however, refused to interfere in the Senate polls.
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Justice Hassan Azhar Rizvi questioned why PTI sought a stay after already nominating a candidate. Justice Jamal Khan Mandokhail added that nominating a candidate was mandatory, implying the party’s petition lacked urgency. The judges emphasized that the court would not delay the election for procedural complaints.
The SC directed the Peshawar High Court to hear both parties and issue a final decision on Faraz’s petition. The indefinite adjournment of the PHC case was set aside. The court highlighted the importance of timely resolution and adherence to election schedules.
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Legal experts say the SC’s decision reinforces the principle of non-interference in scheduled elections. PTI can still pursue its case in the High Court, but the Senate election on Faraz’s seat will proceed as planned.