Inquiry against Justice Isa violates mandate of SJC, Munir Malik tells SC.

Byline: Haseeb Bhatti

Munir A. Malik, the counsel for Justice Qazi Faez Isa, on Tuesday argued that the administration bypassed the Supreme Judicial Counsel (SJC) and held an inquiry against Justice Isa, violating the mandate of the SJC.

The counsel told the full court, consisting of 10 Supreme Court judges and headed by Justice Umar Ata Bandial, that only the SJC can hold an inquiry against a judge. The court was hearing multiple petitions against a presidential reference against Justice Isa.

The reference filed against Justice Isa alleges that he acquired three properties in London on lease in the name of his wife and children between 2011 and 2015, but did not disclose them in wealth returns. Justice Isa has contested that claim, saying he is not a beneficial owner of the flats - neither direct nor indirect.

The counsel while delivering his arguments said that the administration had attempted to target the judiciary. He asked the court to throw out the reference based on "mala fide intentions".

Munir A. Malik argued that the reference should...