CJP Faez Isa Isa questioned the appropriateness of this move, stating, “The Interior Ministry’s role is to maintain law and order. The government’s actions appear to be an attempt to override the court’s decision to protect national assets”
ISLAMABAD: In a recent intervention, the Supreme Court of Pakistan has taken significant steps to address a controversy surrounding the Wildlife Board. On Thursday, the court halted the removal of Rana Saeed from her position as Chairperson of the Wildlife Board and suspended a notification that had placed the board under the jurisdiction of the Interior Ministry. This move comes amid growing concerns about commercial activities within the Margalla Hills National Park.
During a hearing, Chief Justice Qazi Faez Isa criticized the increased influence of military and bureaucratic figures over the country’s governance, questioning the legality and motivations behind recent administrative changes. The Chief Justice expressed frustration with what he described as attempts to bypass judicial decisions designed to protect national assets.
The court summoned key figures involved in the case, including Cabinet Secretary Kamran Ali Afzal, Attorney General Mansoor Usman Awan, and Luqman Ali Afzal, the owner of the private Monal restaurant. Chief Justice Isa raised concerns about the apparent conflict of interest, noting that the Cabinet Secretary is reportedly the brother of the restaurant owner. This connection, according to the Chief Justice, could be influencing decisions related to the Wildlife Board.
The hearing also addressed the controversial transfer of Margalla Hills National Park’s management to the Interior Ministry. Chief Justice Isa questioned the appropriateness of this move, stating, “The Interior Ministry’s role is to maintain law and order. The government’s actions appear to be an attempt to override the court’s decision to protect national assets.” Attorney General Awan was tasked with explaining the rationale behind these administrative changes and was directed to bring the matter to the prime minister’s attention. The court also sought details about the Pine City housing project situated within Margalla Hills, which has been a point of contention.
In a notable exchange, Chief Justice Isa reprimanded Cabinet Secretary Kamran Afzal for referring to the Prime Minister as “Sahib,” insisting on the use of formal titles such as “Prime Minister” or “Mr. Shehbaz Sharif.” This incident underscored the Chief Justice’s broader critique of bureaucratic practices. The Secretary of Climate Change briefly addressed the court, emphasizing that the power of judicial review lies with the courts, but refrained from further comments on the matter.
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