In the Supreme Court hearing regarding the Quetta lawyer murder case, Amanullah Kunrani, the complainant’s lawyer, raised objections against Justice Mazhar Naqvi and Justice Hasan Azhar Rizvi. He declined to offer a written unconditional apology.
Justice Yahya Afridi, heading the bench, inquired if an oral apology would be acceptable. Justice Hasan Azhar Rizvi stated that he could accept an apology if the charges were withdrawn, while Justice Mazahar Ali Akbar Naqvi firmly declined the oral apology.
During the hearing, Justice Mazahar Ali Akbar Naqvi requested Amanullah Kunrani, the complainant’s lawyer, to approach the rostrum and questioned whether he had read the FIR. Kunrani confirmed his familiarity with the FIR and also referred to a case involving Justice Hasan Azhar Rizvi pending in the Sindh High Court.
This led Justice Hasan Azhar Rizvi to express dissatisfaction, questioning Kunrani’s authority to discuss his cases. He warned of a potential contempt of court notice if evidence was not provided. Justice Mazhar Naqvi similarly challenged Kunrani’s manner of addressing the judges.
Kunrani, prompted to stand before the bench, was advised by Justice Yahya Afridi that objections should have been presented in writing. Justice Mazhar Naqvi emphasized that accusations required justification and indicated that Kunrani should seek an unconditional apology.
Justice Hasan Azhar Rizvi demanded the withdrawal of Kunrani’s allegations, given his dignified career, while Kunrani defended his right to speak freely.
As the situation escalated, Kunrani eventually apologized. Chief Justice Yahya Afridi accepted the apology, but Justice Mazhar Ali Akbar Naqvi firmly rejected it. Justice Hasan Azhar Rizvi accepted the apology under the condition that the charges be dropped.
Kunrani folded his hands and expressed remorse, urging the judges not to align themselves with any party. The judges requested Kunrani to submit a written affidavit of unconditional apology, which he declined, inviting them to take action against him.
Justice Yahya Afridi declared that a written order would be issued. The court maintained the injunction in the Quetta lawyer murder case, and the next hearing was scheduled for August 24th.
