The Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) Umar Ata Bandial has made a surprising proposal to cut the pay of judges, including himself, to fund the “vital task” of holding elections across the country. The remarks were passed during the hearing of a case challenging the Election Commission of Pakistan’s (ECP) decision to postpone general elections to the Punjab Assembly until October 8.
A larger bench, consisting of five members, including the Chief Justice of Pakistan Umar Ata Bandial, Justice Ijazul Ahsan, Justice Munib Akhtar, Justice Aminuddin Khan, and Justice Mandokhail, is currently hearing the case. The CJP’s proposal comes after the ECP postponed the elections for more than five months, citing the deteriorating security situation in the country, and the unavailability of finances and security personnel.
The CJP’s proposal to cut judges’ salaries is unprecedented and shows his commitment to the democratic process and the rule of law in Pakistan. The CJP stated that the funds saved from the pay cut would be used to hold the elections across the country. This move will help ensure that the democratic process in Pakistan continues and that the voices of the people are heard.
The decision by the ECP to postpone the elections has been met with widespread criticism from various political parties and civil society organizations. The PTI has challenged the commission’s decision in the Supreme Court of Pakistan, arguing that the ECP does not have the authority to postpone elections.
The CJP’s proposal to cut judges’ salaries to fund elections is a bold move that shows his commitment to the democratic process in Pakistan. It is essential that the government provides the necessary funds and resources to the ECP to hold elections as scheduled. Holding elections on time is crucial for the democratic process in Pakistan, and the CJP’s proposal shows that he is willing to take bold steps to ensure that the elections are held as scheduled.
In conclusion, the proposal by the CJP Umar Ata Bandial to cut the pay of judges to fund the vital task of holding elections across the country is a commendable move. It is essential that the democratic process in Pakistan continues, and the voices of the people are heard. The government must provide the necessary funds and resources to the ECP to hold elections as scheduled, and the judiciary must play its part in ensuring that the rule of law is upheld.
