LHC reserves verdict on appeal to remove caretaker PM

LAHORE: In a significant development today, the Lahore High Court (LHC) presided over by a two-member bench headed by Justice Ali Baqer Najafi, heard the intra-court appeal filed by Muqasit Saleem Advocate seeking the removal of Caretaker Prime Minister Anwar-ul-Haq Kakar from office. After a thorough examination of arguments presented, the court has reserved its decision on the matter.

The appeal, centered around the completion of the caretaker prime minister’s constitutional term of 90 days on November 15, has sparked heated debates in legal circles. Muqasit Saleem Advocate contends that it is illegal for the caretaker prime minister to continue in office beyond the stipulated 90 days.

During the hearing, the government lawyer informed the court that the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) has announced the general elections, scheduled to take place on February 8. The government lawyer emphasised the urgency of the situation by revealing that the Election Commission has already commenced the printing of ballot papers for the upcoming elections.

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In response, the Public Advocate argued that the petition has become ineffective and should be dismissed. The court was urged to issue an order for the immediate removal of the caretaker prime minister, asserting the necessity of establishing a legal setup by the ECP to ensure transparent elections.

As the legal proceedings unfolded, both sides presented their arguments passionately, underscoring the critical nature of the issue, especially with the imminent general elections on the horizon.

The LHC has now reserved its decision on the intra-court appeal. The outcome of this decision holds immense significance for the political landscape, as it not only concerns the removal of the current caretaker prime minister but also has implications for the transparency and legality of the upcoming general elections.

The public awaits the court’s verdict with bated breath, as the judiciary plays a pivotal role in upholding the democratic principles and ensuring a fair and just electoral process.