‘I did not chose to sit there’: Justice Faez Isa speaks up on criticism

Justice Qazi Faez Isa of the Supreme Court has spoken up about why he was present at the National Assembly’s (NA) special session on Monday in honour of the 50 years of the Constitution.

The future Chief Justice was criticised by certain sections of the political class and legal fraternity for attending the celebration.

There was much talk on why Justice Isa was seated in the front row in the National Assembly. Issuing a clarification on his presence, speech and seating arrangement, the justice said that he accepted the invitation because he wanted to show solidarity with the Constitution.

Talking about the backlash he received, Isa said, “I would have preferred to sit in the hall on one side or in the gallery but respect was shown to a member of the judiciary by seating me at the centre; I did not chose to sit there.”

The justice also said that prior to accepting the invitation, inquires were made as to whether there would be political speeches, and assurances were extended that only the Constitution and its making would be spoken about; the programme sent to him also confirmed this.

“I had been asked if I would like to speak and I had declined. However, when political statements were made [in a few of the speeches), I requested to speak to correct any misconceptions that may arise, and I did so,” said Justice Isa

“The Golden Jubilee of the Constitution is a celebration of all citizens; it is not exclusive domain of any political party or institution,” said Justice Isa.

Justice Faez Isa’s presence in National Assembly triggers heated debate

Justice Qazi Faez Isa’s presence at the National Assembly triggered a heated debate among politicians, lawmakers and analysts.

Speaking on the occasion, Justice Isa said — on behalf of the Supreme Court — that the apex court “stood by the Constitution”.

“After God, we are under the protection of the Constitution,” he said. “As you are experts in politics, the law is my field,” the Justice of the apex court stated, adding, “You can comment and criticise when you deem it right as you have done, and that critique was heard.”

Holding a booklet of the constitution of Pakistan in his hand, Justice Isa said: “This book is the identity of Pakistan and its people.”

Emphasising that there was a need to truly cherish the Constitution, “Not because it guarantees my salary, but because it is essential for us and safeguards our rights,” he made is clear that he will speak about the constitution and will not endorse political views.

However, being seen sitting in the front row along with the politicians belonging to the ruling coalition created stir on social media, where politicians, lawmakers and analysts in equal parts criticised and appreciated his presence in the NA moot.

Talking to The News, Supreme Court lawyer Faisal Chaudhry said: “First of all, the issue is that Justice Qazi Faez Isa does not represent the SC; it is always the CJP [who does so]. 

“And Justice Isa was not nominated by the CJP to represent the SC either. And then it seems other judges opted not to go to the event so it was not a wise decision [for Justice Isa] to go there at such a charged time. And then they made him sit right with all these politicians. The problem is: when you go to political events, it invites political commentary. Why make things controversial?”

SAPM on Interior and Legal Affairs Attaullah Tarar said, “I don’t understand what this criticism is about. Had he spoken about politics or political parties, they could have criticised him in whatever manner they deemed fit. But here a judge is speaking just about the constitution and is not endorsing any political views.

Anchorperson Muneeb Farooq while speaking with The News said that he does “not have any objection with regard to Justice Isa’s presence at the convention. It was a day to celebrate and he gave a decent speech [during which] not once but twice he distanced himself by saying he did not subscribe to any of the political speeches being made in parliament.”