Sindh Senior Minister Sharjeel Inam Memon made several pointed remarks during a press conference in Karachi regarding recent Supreme Court decisions and the perceived favoritism towards Imran Khan and the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI). Here are the detailed points he covered:
- Respect for Court Decisions: Sharjeel Inam Memon emphasized that the Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) respects court decisions, even when they are detrimental to the party. He acknowledged that while the PPP has had to accept many unfavorable rulings, it remains committed to the judicial process.
- Ambiguity in Recent Rulings: Memon highlighted the ambiguity in a recent Supreme Court decision, stating that it leaves the decision to appeal at the discretion of the federal government. He suggested that the ruling exhibited “Ladlaism” (favoritism) and expressed concerns that constitutional bodies like the Election Commission of Pakistan had their orders undermined. He also pointed out that this decision overturned the Peshawar High Court’s earlier ruling against the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) project, which had been previously rejected by Justice Bandial.
- Critique of Former Chief Justice Saqib Nisar: Sharjeel Inam Memon accused former Chief Justice Saqib Nisar of bias in favor of Imran Khan, citing various decisions and actions that supposedly facilitated PTI’s rise to power. He referenced the 2018 elections, where Imran Khan was declared Sadiq and Amin (truthful and trustworthy) despite allegations of dishonesty. He also mentioned the failure of the RTS system during the elections, which he claimed led to PTI’s victory through rigging. When the results were challenged, Justice Nisar reportedly ordered that such cases should not be heard immediately, allowing the government to function without interference. Additionally, Memon criticized Nisar for allowing a torturer to escape punishment by contributing to the dam fund.
- Imran Khan’s Favorable Treatment: Memon noted instances where Imran Khan received preferential treatment, such as being transported in a Mercedes and receiving a warm welcome in court despite serious accusations, including involvement in incidents like those of May 9. He contrasted this with the treatment of others who faced severe consequences for lesser offenses.
- Historical Injustices Against PPP: Sharjeel Inam Memon recounted past injustices faced by PPP leaders, including Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto and Benazir Bhutto. He questioned who would be held accountable for these wrongs, pointing out that Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto’s execution has been acknowledged as a judicial murder only after many years. He argued that the damage caused by such injustices cannot be undone and highlighted the sacrifices made by PPP leaders, such as Asif Ali Zardari, in safeguarding the constitution.
- Merit-Based Decisions: Memon advocated for decisions to be based on merit, following the constitution and the law, without personal biases or favoritism. He emphasized that the PPP does not support banning any party but insists that all decisions should adhere to legal and constitutional principles.
- Foreign Lobbying by Imran Khan: Sharjeel Inam Memon criticized Imran Khan for hiring lobbyists in the US, questioning the legality and necessity of such actions. He argued that if hiring lobbyists were permitted under Pakistan’s laws, everyone would do it, highlighting the inconsistency in Imran Khan’s actions and statements.
- Criticism of Israel’s Statements: Memon found it ironic that Israel, known for its own human rights violations, commented on human rights issues in Pakistan following Imran Khan’s arrest. He questioned the credibility of Israel’s stance, given its history.
- Need for Constitutional Adherence: Emphasizing the importance of adhering to the law, Memon stressed that decisions should be free from personal preferences and that everyone should be treated equally under the constitution. He called for an end to favoritism and special treatment, urging for a legal system based on merit and justice.
- Undemocratic Conduct by PTI Founder: Sharjeel Inam Memon described Imran Khan’s leadership style as dictatorial and undemocratic, citing instances where he threatened party members with personal consequences for leaving the party.
In response to a question, Sharjeel Inam Memon stated that legal experts would formulate a plan for the future based on detailed judicial decisions. He affirmed that the Pakistan People’s Party has consistently expressed readiness to engage in dialogue with other democratic parties, reinforcing the party’s commitment to democratic principles and constitutional adherence.
