After facing backlash, CJP Bandial refers to his positive greeting of Imran Khan as “good to see you.”
The statements released by Pakistan’s Chief Justice Umar Ata Bandial during the former prime minister Imran Khan’s appearance before the Supreme Court following his arrest produced a fiery discussion throughout the nation.
While the federal cabinet views CJP Bandial’s use of the phrase “good to see you” when greeting Khan, who is accused of corruption, as an affront to justice, CJP Bandial describes it as proper court decorum.
CJP Bandial greeted lawyer Asghar Sabzwari at a case hearing today, saying “good to see you” when the latter returned to the chief justice’s presence following a lengthy absence. This was done to clarify his behaviour.
He is being condemned for addressing Khan in the same way, but the top justice said that he frequently used this language.
CJP Bandial stated, “I hold everyone in great regard since respect and courtesy are crucial for everyone, and without these two characteristics, there is no enjoyment.
Since last week, when Khan was brought before the highest court after being detained on graft accusations by Pakistan Rangers during a routine appearance at Islamabad High Court (IHC), the conversation between CJP Bandial and the PTI leader has become the talk of the town.
The cabinet, which is headed by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, has harshly criticised CJP Bandial’s involvement in the PTI leader’s incarceration.
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The arrest mobilised Khan’s fans, who then staged violent rallies during which government structures were set on fire, roadways were blocked, and the army’s property was damaged. The army is allegedly to blame for Khan’s overthrow by the PTI last year.
A three-member court, chaired by CJP Bandial, ordered the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) to submit Khan two days after his detention on May 11. In accordance with the directives, Khan was led before the judge in Courtroom No. 1 while being closely guarded, wearing a blue dress and a dark blue waistcoat.
The CJP greeted the ex-PM and said “good to see you” as soon as he arrived at the rostrum. Later, the court granted the PTI leader “extraordinary” relief, describing the Islamabad High Court’s grounds as “invalid and unlawful” for his arrest.
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The former premier was to be protected by “foolproof” security until his appearance before the IHC in connection with his suit against NAB in the Al-Qadir Trust case, according to a court order.
The chief justice’s “interference” was denounced at the federal cabinet meeting, which was presided over by the prime minister. Additionally, the chief justice was deemed “guilty of misconduct” by the government, and as a result, should be dismissed.
PM Shehbaz denounced the “double standards of justice” in his speech to the cabinet.
