Lahore: The Lahore High Court has canceled the cause list for the highly anticipated hearing on the petition challenging the Practice and Procedure Ordinance 2024. Court officials confirmed that no sessions would be held today.
The petition, filed by citizen Munir Ahmed, asserts that the presidential ordinance is motivated by ill intent. Ahmed argues that such an ordinance cannot legally alter the powers of the Supreme Court, whether to restrict or expand them.
In his petition, he seeks the court’s intervention to declare the ordinance null and void. He has also requested a stay on the implementation of the ordinance until the court reaches a final decision regarding the petition.
Legal experts believe that this ordinance, if upheld, could significantly impact the functioning and autonomy of the judiciary. The matter has raised concerns among legal professionals and civil rights advocates who argue that the ordinance undermines the independence of the judiciary.
Background and Implications
The Practice and Procedure Ordinance was introduced as a measure to regulate court proceedings, but critics argue that it poses a threat to judicial independence and may interfere with the Supreme Court’s authority. Legal analysts anticipate that the outcome of this case could set important precedents regarding the balance of power among the branches of government.
As the situation develops, stakeholders, including lawyers, political analysts, and civil society organizations, are closely monitoring the case. The next steps from the Lahore High Court are awaited, which could either pave the way for a hearing on the merits of the ordinance or result in further delays.
