LONDON: The Pakistani Ambassador to the United Kingdom, Mohammad Faisal, has described the recent assault on the vehicle of former Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) Qazi Faez Isa as “extremely unfortunate.” Action has been initiated against those involved, aligning with directives from the Pakistani government. The incident occurred on Tuesday evening as Isa arrived at the Middle Temple, a prestigious legal institution where he was honored for his elevation as a bencher. While a protest organized by the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) outside the venue concluded peacefully, a smaller group of demonstrators attempted to confront Isa’s car later, banging on it and trying to open the doors.
Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi has vowed to take strict measures against the assailants, including the potential cancellation of their Pakistani CNICs and passports. He has instructed the National Database and Registration Authority (Nadra) to identify those responsible using footage from the incident, and a formal first information report (FIR) will be registered in Pakistan. Shayan Ali, a leading figure in the PTI protest, defended the demonstrators’ rights under the UK’s Human Rights Act, asserting that they acted within legal bounds. He cautioned that any punitive actions against the protesters could be perceived as transnational repression aimed at silencing government criticism.
British-Pakistani MPs have expressed their condemnation of the incident, emphasizing the need for respect towards leadership figures. MP Afzal Khan remarked, “There are principles to follow even when disagreeing,” while Yasmin Qureshi stressed that protests must remain peaceful and respectful, urging against any form of abuse or disruption. Sources indicate that the Pakistani commission plans to file a formal case against the individuals involved in the attack, with Scotland Yard expected to register complaints against nine suspects. The incident not only targeted Isa but also caused damage to a vehicle belonging to the Pakistan High Commission, highlighting the severity of the situation.
