ISLAMABAD: The Chief Justice of Pakistan has summoned the Supreme Court and issued show-cause notices to Faisal Vawda and Mustafa Kamal for contempt of court, inviting them to present their criticisms directly.
A three-member bench, led by Chief Justice Qazi Faiz Isa, is hearing the suo motu case related to Senator Faisal Vawda’s press conference, with Additional Attorney General Aamir Rehman appearing in court. The Chief Justice asked if the Additional Attorney General had seen the full press conference, to which he replied that only parts of it had been seen on the news.
The Chief Justice questioned whether Vawda’s press conference constituted contempt of court and whether opinions could be given on pending cases. He emphasized that while criticisms were directed at him, it should not lead to undermining institutions. He remarked on the necessity of addressing issues directly rather than discrediting the judiciary as a whole, noting the presence of both good and bad individuals in any institution.
The Chief Justice also highlighted his efforts to bring transparency and reduce his own powers, criticizing those who resort to insults or violence instead of reasoned arguments. He expressed dismay at accusations of election rigging and stressed that defaming institutions is not beneficial to the country.
The Chief Justice further commented on the inappropriate nature of certain public statements, particularly in civilized societies, and called for constructive criticism rather than theatrical displays. He questioned why Vawda and Kamal chose to speak at a Press Club instead of Parliament and reiterated that judicial conduct should not be debated in Parliament.
The court summoned Faisal Vawda and Mustafa Kamal to appear in person on June 5, issuing notices to both. The Chief Justice also requested video recordings and transcripts of their press conferences from PEMRA and issued a notice to the Attorney General for assistance.
The Supreme Court has issued show-cause notices to both individuals in the contempt of court case, underscoring the importance of direct criticism and accountability.
