Punjab Assembly Opposition Leader Malik Ahmad Khan Bhachar on Sunday opposed the inclusion of retired judges in the election tribunals for hearing the Form 47-related cases, warning of “serious political and legal repercussions” of the government’s decision.
Speaking at a news conference, Bhachar noted the judiciary’s commitment to upholding the Constitution but accused the government of trying to appoint “favourable retired judges” to secure desired outcomes.
Several Form-47s – the consolidated election result of a constituency based on tallies at the polling stations in Form-45s – have been challenged in the election tribunals. On May 27, an ordinance was issued to allow retired judges for appointments to the election tribunals on electoral disputes.
Bhachar emphasised that his party firmly rejected the government’s decision, citing potential serious political and legal repercussions. “This entire government set-up hinges upon the Form 47s and the court decisions [on the challenges],” he said.
“Retired judges cannot render fair decisions,” the opposition leader told reporters. He noted the judiciary’s commitment to upholding the Constitution but accused the government of trying to appoint favourable retired judges to secure the desired outcomes.
Bhachar also condemned the registration of “unjust FIRs [first information reports]” against the PTI workers. He announced that his party was ready to launch a protest movement, led by parliamentary, political, and regional leaders against the injustices.
