Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Secretary General Salman Akram Raja has raised alarms over recent constitutional amendments, asserting that they are aimed at banning PTI and facilitating party founder Imran Khan’s trial in military courts. Speaking on a televised program, Raja warned that these amendments threaten to alter the very structure of Pakistan’s Constitution by establishing a court superior to the Supreme Court. “This move distorts the essence of the Constitution,” Raja declared, arguing that no institution should bypass the authority of the Supreme Court.
According to Raja, the amendments also carry political motivations, targeting PTI under the pretense of judicial reform. He criticized the government’s timing, suggesting that such changes could have been delayed, implying that they are part of a broader strategy to suppress PTI’s influence.
Military Trial in Question
The Islamabad High Court (IHC) recently dismissed a petition filed by Imran Khan, seeking to block his trial in military courts over the May 9 incidents. During the proceedings, the court was informed by Additional Attorney General Munawar Iqbal Duggal that no decision had been made yet regarding Khan’s military trial. Justice Miangul Hassan Aurangzeb emphasized that, should a decision be made, legal procedures would be strictly followed, providing a measure of relief to the PTI camp.
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The looming military trial of Imran Khan continues to be a subject of intense debate, with PTI’s leadership voicing concerns over potential legal ramifications. Raja has consistently urged the government to clarify its stance, emphasizing that any deviation from established legal procedures would undermine Pakistan’s constitutional order.
Judicial Control Sparks Concerns
Raja further criticized the amendments, pointing out that they would allow the Prime Minister to appoint the Chief Justice and control the judicial process. Such powers, he argued, would fundamentally change Pakistan’s legal structure, giving the government undue influence over the courts. “This is a direct attempt to influence judicial proceedings and keep PTI at bay,” Raja remarked. He accused the government of trying to extend cases indefinitely, particularly those related to elections, to serve its political interests.
The PTI leader also expressed concerns about the removal of judges from the Election Tribunal, alleging political interference. He challenged the government to present any evidence of electoral fraud openly but expressed skepticism over the impartiality of the judiciary. Raja’s remarks highlight the growing mistrust between PTI and the ruling government, with both sides locked in a tense legal and political battle.
As the government deliberates its next steps, tensions remain high, with PTI poised to continue its opposition to what it sees as an unconstitutional effort to marginalize the party.